Sunday, September 14, 2008

ISI MAILBOX

Here are some highlights from a letter written to Chris Arnzen, host of Iron Sharpens Iron:

Chris,
Greetings in the name of the Lord. I wanted to pass on something to you. On September 23, I will be in London, England to participate in a two hour debate on live Christian television regarding the subject - "Is Christianity Compatible With Freemasonry."

It is a panel of four of us, two for and two against. The Masons my teammate and I will debate are high level Masons in England. I thought I would pass this on to you because essentially this was brought about because of our December program on my forthcoming book on the subject.

A man in Ireland who organizes the debates for Revelation television heard our interview that was posted on sermonaudio.com. He then called me and wanted to have a Reformed Calvinist as the other anti-Mason. So, if it were not for your show Chris, this opportunity would not have happened. I just wanted you to know that "Iron Sharpens Iron" reaches out in so many different ways. You have a great ministry.

I plan to release my book titled Unveiling Freemasonry's Idolatry sometime in late October. As we discussed previously, we could have a follow up show sometime in October prior to the release of the book, and you could mention that your program helped lead to my participation in this London debate.

Revelation television is one of two major Christian stations in England with a viewing audience in all of England, Ireland, and parts of Northern Europe. This station in England awhile back had Dr. James White on debating on predestination, which was a big success.

I always like to share with others how their ministry is promoting the cause of Christ. "Iron Sharpens Iron" is a great avenue in this cause.

In Him, John

Dear Pastor John,

WOW!!! What wonderful news!!! I will pray that our Sovereign Lord uses you mightily for His Glory during your debate in England on Freemasonry! I am so delighted that the "Iron Sharpens Iron" listener in Ireland has arranged this opportunity for you! Grace & peace!

In His grip,

Chris Arnzen

Saturday, September 13, 2008

ISI Mailbox

Here are some highlights from a letter written to Chris Arnzen, host of Iron Sharpens Iron:

Dear Brother Chris,

It's hard to believe it's already been two years for ISI. What a tremendous blessing your daily show has been for myself and so many others. I'm almost never able to listen live, so I download the mp3 for later and I have never once been disappointed in the topics, the questions, the way the guests are treated, and even the callers questions. Quite the contrary, it's always a blessing, I almost always learn something I did not know before, and have often been inspired to dig a little deeper into certain topics as a resultof your show's topic for the day. Count me among one of the many who are truly blessed by what you do. I only hope there are many more years to come, of ISI! Happy two years, brother.

SDG, Carla
SOLI DEO GLORIA! Reflections of the Times carlarolfe.blogspot.com Reflections - Apparel & Giftware
www.cafepress.com/reflections06

Dear Sister Carla,

THANK YOU so very, very much for lifting up my spirits with your wonderful congratulatory words regarding the 2nd anniversary of broadcasting for "Iron Sharpens Iron". I read your very moving email on the air the day after receiving it. Please continue to pray that I can acquire enough advertising sponsors in order to keep the program on the air for a 3rd year. As you know, the program cannot remain on the air without advertising support. Please also keep spreading the word about the program up there in Canada! I truly thank our Sovereign God for your encouragement! It has touched my heart more than you can possibly know.Grace & peace, sister!

In His grip,

Chris Arnzen

Friday, September 12, 2008

PETER FEUERHERD & PETE SHEEHAN: "HOLYLAND U.S.A.: A Catholic Ride Through America's Evangelical Landscape"

MP3 Available Here

PETER FEUERHERD, the Editor of "American Catholic" and a widely respected Catholic journalist, and PETE SHEEHAN, Senior Reporter for "The Long Island Catholic" newspaper, will address the theme of Feuerherd's book "HOLYLAND U.S.A.: A Catholic Ride Through America's Evangelical Landscape," winner of five Catholic Press Awards.

As the host of "Iron Sharpens Iron", and as an Evangelical from the Reformed Baptist tradition, I believe it is very healthy and valuable to hear how those outside of Evangelical Christianity view the faith demonstrated by those who do profess to be heirs of the Protestant Reformation today. During this broadcast we will get a glimpse of Evangelicalism as seen through the lens of two Roman Catholic ecumenists.

Here is a description of Peter Feuerherd's book "Holyland USA" from Publishers Weekly:

"A little more than 40 years ago, many Protestants in the U.S. thought that a Catholic in the White House was a sign of the Apocalypse. Now, Catholics and Protestants often find themselves on the same side of political and social battle lines. 'The barriers are breaking down,' writes award-winning religion journalist Feuerherd, a self-described 'liberal New Yorker' who investigates the evangelical Protestant movement in the U.S. Feuerherd begins his exploration at the Holy Land theme park in Orlando, Fla., which boasts a replica of the ancient city of Jerusalem and tour guides who proselytize visitors. Feuerherd also writes about his time at the Protestant-run American Bible Society in New York, where he worked as an editor, and investigates the Willow Creek megachurch in suburban Chicago. He is not afraid to levy criticisms against some intolerant evangelicals, but he never does so at arm's length—he inserts himself into the evangelical world and one can sense his appreciation growing. His daughter's recent decision to forgo Catholicism and attend an evangelical church presents Feuerherd with a new perspective on evangelical hospitality that he generously shares with the reader. Feuerherd's writing style is light and often humorous, which helps defuse many of the Catholic/evangelical tensions he encounters."

During this discussion, an attempt will be made to contrast the ecumenism of the two Catholic guests with the non-ecumenical stance the host of this program takes regarding relations between Evangelicals and Roman Catholics in matters of spirituality, evangelism and worship.

Thursday, September 11, 2008

PASTOR DAVID T. KING: "AN OVERVIEW OF TOPICS ADDRESSED DURING LONG ISLAND SPEAKING TOUR"

MP3 Available Here


PASTOR DAVID T. KING, a minister of the Gospel for over 20 years, and the current pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Elkton, MD, will provide "AN OVERVIEW OF TOPICS ADDRESSED DURING LONG ISLAND SPEAKING TOUR".

Pastor King was recently invited to speak at four different churches on Long Island, NY. The topics addressed, and the names, locations, and contact information of the churches where he was scheduled to preach, are listed here (CDs & tapes should now be available from each church):


Wednesday, September 10th :
"THE PERSONAL TESTIMONY OF THE APOSTLE PAUL (Phil.3:1-11)"
HOPE REFORMED BAPTIST CHURCH
3239 Route 112, Suite # 2 Medford, NY 11763
(631) 696-5711
http://www.hopereformedli.net/


Friday, September 12th, :
"MY GOD, MY GOD! WHY HAST THOU FORSAKEN ME? (Matt.27:46)"
MASSAPEQUA CHURCH OF GOD
890 Hicksville Road (Route 107)
Massapequa, NY 11758
(516) 799-2421


Saturday, September 13th, :
"EXEGETICAL & HISTORICAL PROOF OF SOLA SCRIPTURA"
GRACE GOSPEL CHURCH
214 Falcon Avenue
Patchogue, NY 11772
(631) 289-5495
http://www.gracegospelchurch.com/

Sunday, September 14th, 9:30am, 11am & 6pm
9:30am:"HOLY SCRIPTURE AS THE ONLY NORMA NORMANS NON NORMATA: (Scripture Alone Sets the Terms & Nothing External to it Can Correct It)"

11am: "WHO IS GOD? (One Portrait from Isaiah 57:15)"
6pm: "THE AGONY OF GETHSEMANE (Matt.26:36-46)"
GRACE REFORMED BAPTIST CHURCH OF LONG ISLAND
36 Smith Street
Merrick, NY 11566
(516) 379-2408
http://www.gracereformedbaptistchurch.com/


PASTOR DAVID T. KING has been a minister of the Gospel for over 20 years. David is a graduate of Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, MS (M.Div. 1983), and has served as Pastor/Teaching Elder in the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) and also the Orthodox Presbyterian Church (OPC), where he just recently answered the call to the pastorate of Christ Presbyterian Church in Elkton, MD . He is married, and has one grown child, a daughter. He is co-author with William Webster of the groundbreaking, three-volume set, "Holy Scripture: The Ground and Pillar of Our Faith" (see http://www.christiantruth.com/), which is a defense of the Reformation principle of sola Scriptura, including irrefutable documentation that this principle was a firmly held belief among the Church Fathers long before the Reformation and was not an invention of 16th century rebels.

His work has exposed the many errors and massive historical revisionism in which popular Roman Catholic apologists engage on the issue of Scripture and tradition. In addition to David's pastoral responsibilities and research activities, he has in the recent past been a guest on Christian talk radio as well as a featured speaker at Bible conferences dealing with various issues of Roman Catholicism. He has earned a very well deserved reputation for being an extremely powerful preacher and an extraordinarily gifted communicator.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Monday, September 8, 2008

PASTOR JOHN M. OTIS: "UNVEILING FREEMASONRY's IDOLATRY"

MP3 Available Here

PASTOR JOHN M. OTIS of Westminster Presbyterian Church (RPCUS) in Corpus Christi, Texas, will address the theme of his book: UNVEILING FREEMASONRY's IDOLATRY. This 350-page work is considered to be the most extensively researched and the most comprehensive treatment of Freemasonry by a Christian author.

While Pastor Otis was a member of the Presbyterian Church in America denomination, he spearheaded a PCA General Assembly study committee from 1986-87 that was appointed to determine whether the tenents of Freemasonry violated Scripture. In 1987 the PCA General Assembly agreed with their findings that it was incompatible with the Christian religion.

During this interview Pastor Otis will seek to answer such questions as "What are the historical foundations of Freemasonry?", "Why is it a cult?", "What is the nature of the ghastly oaths required in the Lodge?", "What is the Masonic Secrecy all about?", "Were some American Presidents members of the Lodge?", "Why Jesus Christ is forbidden to be mentioned in the Lodge?", "What should church leaders do with members who are in the Lodge?"...and more!

Sunday, September 7, 2008

ISI Mailbox



Here is a letter written to ISI guest Dr. Steven Lawson about his recent interview on Iron sharpens Iron (FOUNDATIONS OF GRACE: A Long Line of Godly Men)

Mr. Steven Lawson, I recently read (AOMIN) that you thanked God for Chris Arnzen and his ministry, "Iron Sharpens Iron." You were quoted as follows: "I thank God for Chris Arnzen and his Christ- centered ministry with IRON SHARPENS IRON. Most grateful am I for his unwavering commitment to the absolute truth of Scripture. Here is a rare voice on the radio today. May the Lord set a wide and open door before this vibrant program for all to hear." ---Dr. Steven J. Lawson, Senior Pastor of Christ Fellowship Baptist Church, Mobile, AL Q. Can you tell me what exactly Mr. Arnzen's unwavering commitment to the absolute truth of scripture is? Q. How did he determine what is the absolute truth of scripture? Who told him? The Scripture? You maybe? Q. Is scripture self authenticating? Q. Since all of us are fallible, could Mr. Arnzen be wrong in his personal interpretation of what he believes the absolute truth of scripture is? Q. I'm sure you would agree that there is only one absolute truth. Is that one truth only found in the RBC? If not, then why don't Protestants worship under one umbrella? Patiently awaiting your answers, Bob

Dr. Steven Lawson Responds:

Bob:

Thank you for writing. To answer your questions, the truth to which Chris Arnzen is committed may be summarized in the five solas of the Reformation. That is, he is committed to the truth that salvation is (1) by grace alone, (2) through faith alone, (3) in Christ alone, (4) based upon the authority of Scripture alone, which gives (5) glory to God alone. Mr. Arnzen came to this conviction by a plain interpretation of the Scripture under the leadership of the Holy Spirit. Thus, God revealed and affirmed this to him. Mr. Arnzen is not wrong in this interpretation of God's Word. This one truth, stated above in five parts, is not found only in the RBC (I am assuming by that you mean Reformed Baptist Church), but wherever God's Word is taught in truth on these non-negotiable issues. All Protestants do worship under this one umbrella regarding these truths of salvation.

Blessings in Christ,

Steven Lawson

Saturday, September 6, 2008

ISI MAILBOX



Here are some highlights from letters written to Chris Arnzen, host of Iron Sharpens Iron:

Hello Chris,
I wanted to wish u a HAPPY 2 year Anniversity! May God continue to use you to educate his church for His Glory and our Good! In His Grace for His Glory, Rodney


THANK YOU MY BROTHER!!!! Chris Arnzen


Wow! Great!!! I am downloading your mp3s, listen and grow! Keep up the good work, Brother! Sincerely,Obrad Nikolich Nish, Serbia

THANK YOU for your encouragement! Please keep spreading the word about "Iron Sharpens Iron" in Serbia!

In His grip,

Chris Arnzen



Dear Mr. Arnzen,

Thank you so much for your program. I enjoy getting to listen to your program from the MP3 downloads from your web site. Particularly, I wanted to thank you for having on your program recently a Church of Christ Minister who had been greatly impacted by Reformed theology. As a former long-time member of the Church of Christ who has been radically impacted by Reformed theology, I was greatly encouraged to see that there are others like me out there. I slowly came to accept these tenants over a few years. Oddly enough, I was convinced that the Bible taught unconditional election before I ever came to accept all the rest of the core tenants of historical Protestantism. Due to reading the Bible and works by Saint Augustine, John Calvin, Dr. R. C. Sproul, and Dr. James R. White, I have found what it truly means to trust in God and be completely thankful to God for the whole of my salvation and existence...

...Thanks again for your program, and I hope your program stays on the air for many more years to come and continues to have a positive impact on many others as it has on me.

Paul
Vinemont, AL

Dear Brother Paul,

Thank you so very much for taking the time to encourage me through your email! I am delighted that you are being blessed by "Iron Sharpens Iron", in particular my interview with my friend, Church of Christ minister Joel Mark Solliday of Northern Light Church of Christ in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, on the positive influence that Reformed Theology has had upon him and a growing number of others in the Stone/Campbell Restoration Movement. I pray that my program continues to bless you. Please spread the word about the program down there in Alabama.

Are you familiar with Solid Ground Christian Books located in Homewood, Alabama? It is owned and operated by a very dear friend of mine and mentor in the Reformed Faith for over 20 years, and is a veritable treasure-trove of Reformed literature. Their web site is http://www.solid-ground-books.com/ and their toll-free number is 1-866-789-7423. Grace and peace!

In His grip,

Chris Arnzen

Friday, September 5, 2008

WILLIAM NORMAN GRIGG: "A CHRISTIAN LIBERTARIAN VIEW OF THE 2008 DEMOCRATIC & REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTIONS"

MP3 Available Here

WILLIAM NORMAN GRIGG, former Mormon High Priest who converted to Evangelical Christianity, former Senior Editor of The New American magazine and the author of such controversial books as Freedom On The Altar: The UN's Crusade Against God & Family , Global Gun Grab: The UN's Campaign to Disarm Americans and The Gospel of Revolt: Feminism vs. the Family will address the theme: "A CHRISTIAN LIBERTARIAN VIEW OF THE 2008 DEMOCRATIC & REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTIONS."

This year's race for the United States Presidency certainly has become more fascinating and controversial with the recent nomination of Sarah Palin as the very first female Republican candidate for Vice President in history, joining Democratic Presidential candidate Barach Obama as a "history maker" since he is the very first post-primary Black candidate for the office of President officially nominated by either of the two major parties in history. Today William Norman Grigg will give his impressions of both the Democratic National Convention and the Republican National Convention from the point of view of an Evangelical Christian who is neither a Democrat nor a Republican.

Mr. Grigg will also differentiate between the philosophy, goals and ideals of "Christian Libertarians" and the licentious and libertine goals and ideals of many others merely professing to be "Libertarians".

Thursday, September 4, 2008

JOHN LEUZARDER: "THE GOSPEL FOR CHILDREN"

MP3 Available Here

JOHN LEUZARDER, a cancer survivor and Christian author, will address the theme of his book: "THE GOSPEL FOR CHILDREN."

This unusual book does something we sometimes take for granted; it methodically teaches the Gospel of Jesus Christ to young children. Of no small importance because as Romans 1:16 tells us this Gospel “is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes”. It has a color picture for each major point and then has a page at the end with just the pictures as a memory device to help children recall these truths.

According to Tedd Tripp, pastor, conference speaker and the author of the very popular, noteworthy book "Shepherding a Child's Heart,"who convinced our guest John Leuzarder to get "The Gospel for Children" published as a book after seeing John's rough draft and stick figure drawings: "This book [The Gospel for Children] is very special, it's the kind of book parents will want to read to their children again and again. It presents the Gospel in a straightforward, uncomplicated manner - explaining the truths of God, the Bible, Sin, Jesus, the need for Repentance and Faith, and Counting the Costs of the Christian life, but in a way that both children and even adults will easily benefit from. I highly recommend it. "

You can also listen to a previous interview with John Leuzarder on "Iron Sharpens Iron" addressing his overcoming a trial with cancer of the tongue by clicking here.

You can contact John Leuzarder at JLeuzarder@earthlink.net.

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

STEVE BURCHETT: "HOW CHILDREN COME TO FAITH IN CHRIST"



MP3 Available Here

STEVE BURCHETT, seminar leader, writer, and editorial assistant for Christian Communicators Worldwide (CCW), will address the theme: "HOW CHILDREN COME TO FAITH IN CHRIST."

Since 2007, Steve has traveled to churches around the country teaching a seminar on childhood conversion, typically staying through Sunday morning in order to preach. He also thoroughly enjoys communicating the Bible at retreats, conferences, and pastor's meetings of various denominations. In addition, Steve loves to teach through writing. Many of his articles may be found at http://www.bulletininserts.org/ , http://www.ccwblog.org/ , and http://www.ccwtoday.org/.

In 1998, Steve earned his B.A. from Cedarville University in Ohio , followed by a Masters of Divinity in 2001 from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. For nearly five years prior to serving with CCW, he was the pastor of First Baptist Church of Athens, Ohio.

Along with his current ministry with CCW, Steve serves as an elder in Christ Fellowship of Kansas City , a unique church made up of home congregations in the Kansas City metro area.

Steve married Patty Noble of Westwood, New Jersey, in 1998, and they now have three children: Katie, Luke, and Lilly. You can keep up with Steve's ministry and family by visiting http://www.christcommunicator.wordpress.com/ .

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

DR. CHRISTOPHER W. MORGAN: "WHAT ABOUT THOSE WHO HAVE NEVER HEARD: Can the Unevangelized Enter Heaven?"

MP3 Available Here

DR. CHRISTOPHER W. MORGAN, author, Professor of Theology and Associate Dean of the School of Christian Ministries at California Baptist University, will address the often asked, age-old question: "WHAT ABOUT THOSE WHO HAVE NEVER HEARD: Can the Unevangelized Enter Heaven?"

The above question is the central theme of the book "FAITH COMES BY HEARING: A Response to Inclusivism" edited by our guest today, Christopher W. Morgan, along with a previous guest on "Iron Sharpens Iron", Robert A. Peterson. The debate over this question swirls and feelings run deep. What is the fate of the unevangelized? The traditional position--that apart from an explicit faith in Jesus no one is saved--seems to have fallen out of favor with many evangelicals. Here is a passionate but irenic response to the arguments of those who believe that the unevangelized can (or might) be saved apart from knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Building on the insights of others, nine scholars introduce readers, even those with little background, to the ongoing discussion. Key questions--Is general revelation sufficient? Are other religions salvific? Do holy pagans exist? Must faith be explicit? Is exclusivism unjust?--are probed and answered from a biblical, theological and historical perspective.

The book's positive thrust is summed up by editors Christopher Morgan and Robert Peterson: "God is passionately engaged in gathering people to know, love and worship him from every tribe, language, people and nation. And he has called us to join him on this mission."

As Professor of Theology and Associate Dean of the School of Christian Ministries at California Baptist University, Dr. Chris Morgan teaches courses in theology, pastoral leadership, and preaching. He has also served as a pastor for seventeen years. His Ph.D. is in theology from Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary . In addition to the book we are discussing today, Dr. Morgan is the author of "Jonathan Edwards and Hell," co-author of the commentary "James: Wisdom for the Community," and general editor of and contributor in "Hell Under Fire," as well as "Suffering and the Goodness of God,"which is due Oct. 31, 2008, and other upcoming volumes in the “Theology in Community” series.

Monday, September 1, 2008

MARK CHANSKI: "MANLY DOMINION...In a Passive, Purple, Four-Ball World" (ENCORE PRESENTATION)

MP3 Available Here


MARK CHANSKI, pastor of the Reformed Baptist Church of Holland, MI, will address the theme of his book: MANLY DOMINION...In a Passive, Purple, Four-Ball World.

Dr. Jay Adams, world-renowned biblical counselor and scholar, said of this book: "Mark Chanski's book, Manly Dominion, is helpful in showing men their biblical roles in life. His greatest strength, perhaps, is in providing a wealth of useful examples. You will want to read it!"

Are you a passive-purple-four-ball? In billiards, the four-ball is passive; it’s the one that gets knocked around by the other balls. Christian man, is that you? Are you knocked around by your environment, rather than taking your God-given assignment to lead?

Are you passive when faced with difficult situations at home, church or work? Unfortunately, the world today is filled with many passive-purple-four-ball men, who are clueless as to how to deal with their work environment, relate to their wives, raise their children, spiritually guide their families, and lead with confidence in their churches.

Mark Chanski’s book is a clarion call to all Christian men to face life’s challenges with Manly Dominion. It will challenge and encourage you to lead, wherever God places you, with Spirit-filled conviction. The wisdom contained herein is from the most reliable source known: God’s Word, the Bible. As you read, you will discover that Chanski touches on just about every subject that a man needs to consider in his life, and he does so with unequalled clarity.

No Christian man (or woman!) living in today’s world should be without it. Read carefully, and transform your life!

A companion book by Pastor Chanski, "WOMANLY DOMINION: More Than a Meek & Quiet Spirit," is expected to be in print by this Fall from Calvary Press Publishing .

Saturday, August 30, 2008

Recent ISI Endorsements

"I thank God for Chris Arnzen and his Christ-centered ministry with IRON SHARPENS IRON. Most grateful am I for his unwavering commitment to the absolute truth of Scripture. Here is a rare voice on the radio today. May the Lord set a wide and open door before this vibrant program for all to hear." ---Dr. Steven J. Lawson, Senior Pastor of Christ Fellowship Baptist Church, Mobile, AL

"Chris Arnzen's love for and confidence in Scripture causes him to address issues without fear while showing great respect for those who may disagree with his views. That's what makes IRON SHARPENS IRON such an informative and beneficial radio program. If you want to hear clear, concise thinking from a biblical perspective, listen to this show!"---Dr. Tom Ascol, author, Executive Director of Founders ministries, Pastor of Grace Baptist Church, Cape Coral, FL

"Chris Arnzen keeps the coals burning with vibrant, thoughtful Christianity. Join the conversation!"--- Jim Elliff, founder & president of Christian Communicators Worldwide



Iron Sharpens Iron" now has an online store! If you enjoy this broadcast, please consider helping us keep the show going by getting some fabulous ISI merchandise. Click on the logo below, or visit the store via this link!

Friday, August 29, 2008

The Pastors' Roundtable

MP3 Available Here

THE PASTORS' ROUNDTABLE


Featuring:



PASTOR BRUCE BENNETT, Grace Gospel Church, Patchogue, Long Island, NY


PASTOR CHRIS HATTON, Blue Point Bible Church, Blue Point, Long Island, NY


PASTOR AL STEIN, Neighborhood Assembly of God, Bellmore, Long Island, NY

Thursday, August 28, 2008

TOM ASCOL: "THE SUFFICIENCY OF SCRIPTURE"

MP3 Available Here

TOM ASCOL, pastor of Grace Baptist Church in Cape Coral, Florida, the Executive Director of Founders Ministries and Editor of the Founders Journal , will address the theme: "THE SUFFICIENCY OF SCRIPTURE".

In regard to the Reformation Principle of "Sola Scriptura" (that the Scriptures alone are the church of Jesus Christ's inerrant, infallible, and sufficient authority in matters of faith and practice), Rome did and does *not* reject the inerrancy of Scripture. In fact, it upholds in its official dogma that a belief in the inerrancy of Scripture is essential. However, Rome did and *does* reject the formal sufficiency of Scripture. Rome, in their denial of the Bible's perspicuity or sufficient clarity, believes that the church needs an infallible authority outside of the Canon to declare what the Scriptures truly teach, and a sacred tradition to provide further guidance in matters of faith and practice. Today, Dr. Tom Ascol will explain why he believes it is not enough to believe in the inerrancy of the Scriptures, but their sufficiency also must be believed. Dr. Ascol will also explain why he believes many Protestants (modern Evangelicals, Pentecostals, Charismatics and Fundamentalists), have, in practice, also violated the the sufficiency of Scripture.

Founders Ministries is a ministry of teaching and encouragement promoting both doctrine and devotion expressed in the Doctrines of Grace and their experiential application to the local church, particularly in the areas of worship and witness. Founders Ministries takes as its theological framework the first recognized confession of faith that Southern Baptists produced, The Abstract of Principles . They desire to encourage the return to and promulgation of the biblical gospel that their Southern Baptist forefathers held dear.

Tom Ascol received a BS from Texas A & M University and the MDiv and PhD degrees from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary . He is editor of the books Reclaiming the Gospel & Reforming Churches and Dear Timothy and has contributed articles and chapters to numerous publications.

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

BHAJAN SINGH: "INDIA's HIDDEN HOLOCAUST"

MP3 Available Here

BHAJAN SINGH, Director of the Organization For Minorities of India (OFMI) will address "INDIA's HIDDEN HOLOCAUST."

The vast majority of Americans are totally ignorant of the fact that militant Hindus are brutally murdering our brethren in Christ and other minorities in India. The silence is deafening among our elected officials and those running for political office.

Under British rule in India, ethnic and religious minorities were strategically divided against each other. This was done to prevent the formation of a coalition of minorities which could present a united and powerful front against the British. Post-independence, this strategy was continued by the Indian government. Consequently, hundreds of thousands of Indian minorities have been murdered by the Indian government and extremist groups. Anti-conversion laws, the still thriving caste system, and fake encounters staged by law enforcement all serve to maintain the oppression of India's minorities.

Considering India's emergent status as a global superpower, it is imperative for non-Indians to understand the issues and circumstances of Indian minorities. So the Organization for Minorities of India (OFMI) was created to educate people about situations affecting the major religious and cultural Indian minorities, which include Buddhists, Christians, Dalits, Muslims, and Sikhs. Their organization is composed of various Indian minorities who have joined together to encourage dialogue and understanding between Indian and non-Indian minorities.

According to the President of Dasmesh Darbar, a Sikh house of worship in the Vancouver, BC area:

"The Vancouver Sikh community strongly condemns the recent anti-Christian violence in India. Several people, including a nun in Orissa and a priest in Andhra Pradesh, have been brutally murdered over the past 10 days. This bloodshed is the latest in the war on Christians, Dalits, Muslims, and Sikhs, who consistently suffer blatant human rights abuses at the hands of Hindu extremists...

...On August 16, Father Thomas Pandippallyil's body was discovered in Andhra Pradesh. His body showed signs of torture, including broken legs and hands and eyes torn from their sockets. On August 25, a nun was burned alive when Hindu rioters torched a Christian orphanage in Orissa. Reports continue to emerge of Hindu fundamentalists burning churches and shooting Christians, particularly in Orissa...

...Seven Indian states have undermined both freedom of religion and of speech by outlawing religious conversion and banning promotion of any religion but Hinduism, thus encouraging harassment and assault of Christians, whose religion compels evangelism. A May 2005 case from Voice of the Martyrs further illustrates the risk to Indian Christians: 'The death sentence for the man convicted of murdering Australian missionary Graham Staines and his boys in 1999 was commuted... Seeing this as leniency for those who kill Christians, a Hindu militant and at least two others entrapped and murdered two pastors on the outskirts of Hyderabad in Andhra Pradesh.'...

...Hindu fundamentalists are emboldened to commit such offenses by the Indian state's anti-minority policies. These began with Gandhi, who said: 'It cannot be said that Sikhism, Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism are separate religions. All these four faiths and their offshoots are one. Hinduism is an ocean into which all the rivers run. It can absorb Islam and Christianity and all other religions.' This philosophy was then adopted into Article 25 of the Indian Constitution, which says: 'Hindus shall be construed as including a reference to persons professing the Sikh, Jaina or Buddhist religion.'...

...'Gandhi turned his anti-minority ideology into Indian state policy,' said Dasmesh Darbar president Sudager Singh. “With the stroke of a pen, he forcefully converted millions of minorities to Hinduism through Article 25. His position as ‘Father of the Nation’ deserves serious reexamination.'...

...The Vancouver Sikh community urges the launch of international investigations of Indian state complicity in anti-minority violence. We also demand the repeal of Article 25 and unequivocal protection of freedom of religion and the press. Finally, we request the swift apprehension of those responsible for the recent murders."

Today's guest, "Bhajan Singh, a member of the Sikh religion, was born in Singapore. He moved to the United States in the 1980's, where he has been active in the Indian-American minority communities for over 20 years. During that time, Bhajan has monitored the rise of Hindu nationalism and its impact on Indian minorities. He currently resides in California. You can contact him at info@ofmi.org.

Bhajan Singh and OFMI are involved in protesting the erection of a larger than life-size bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi, which is a gift from the Government of India, at James Madison University in Virginia in "recognition of the work of the Mahatma Gandhi Center for Global Nonviolence." The statue will be unveiled and dedicated on October 2, 2008, the International Day of Nonviolence and birth anniversary of Ghandi, by Mr. Ronen Sen, Ambassador of India to the US. This statue is the first of Mahatma Gandhi in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the third at a college campus in the United States of America. Moreover, James Madison University is the first (and only) institution of higher learning outside of India to have a center named after Mahatma Gandhi. This is highly offensive to OFMI and victims of Hindu persecution who view Ghandi as a symbol for racial hatred, not a hero of racial equality.

You can listen to another free, downloadable MP3 of an "Iron Sharpens Iron" interview on a related topic with another Sikh, Col. G.B. Singh (U.S. Army, Retired), author of "Ghandi: Behind the Mask of Divinity" and "Ghandi Under Cross-Examination" by clicking here.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

DR. JAMES R. WHITE: "PULPIT CRIMES: THE CRIMINAL MISHANDLING OF GOD's WORD"

MP3 Available Here

DR. JAMES R. WHITE, founder & director of Alpha & Omega Ministries , a theologically Reformed Christian apologetics ministry based in Phoenix, AZ, will address the theme of his very controversial book: "PULPIT CRIMES: THE CRIMINAL MISHANDLING OF GOD's WORD."

This may be Dr. White's most provocative book yet. White sets out to examine numerous "crimes" being commited in pulpits throughout the land every week, as he seeks to leave no stone unturned. Based firmly upon the bedrock of Holy Scripture, one "crime" after another is layed bare for all to see.

As Dr. White has very aptly put it, "The pulpit is to be a place where God speaks from His Word: what has happened to this sacred duty in our day? Let pulpit crimes be exposed by the light of God's Word."

SOME OF THE SUBJECTS BEING COVERED

Laying Down the Law: The Bible's Teaching on the Nature of Preaching

Prostitution: Using the Gospel for Financial Gain

Pandering Pluralism

Cowardice Under Fire

Felonious Eisegesis

Entertainment Without a License

Cross Dressing: Ignoring God's Ordinance Regarding the Roles of Men and Women


In addition to his labors for the furtherance of the Kingdom of Christ with Alpha & Omega Ministries, Dr. James R. White is a professor, having taught Greek, Systematic Theology, and various topics in the field of apologetics. He has authored or contributed to more than twenty books, including "The King James Only Controversy", "The Forgotten Trinity", "The Potter's Freedom: A Defense of the Reformation & A Rebuttal of Norman Geisler's 'Chosen But Free'", "Dangerous Airwaves: Harold Camping Refuted & Christ's Church Defended" and "The God Who Justifies" (see a complete list of Dr. White's books here ).

He is an accomplished debater, having engaged in more than fifty moderated, public debates with leading proponents of Roman Catholicism, Liberal Protestantism, Homosexual Activism, Oneness Pentecostalism, Islam, Jehovah's Witnesses, and Mormonism, in addition to having collegial, "in-house" debates with friends & brothers in Christ over issues ranging from the biblical subjects of baptism to the doctrines of Calvinism. He is an elder of the Phoenix Reformed Baptist Church, has been married to Kelli for more than twenty-two years, and has two children, Joshua and Summer. Listen to Dr. White's live, call-in Internet program "The Dividing Line" at http://www.aomin.org/.

Monday, August 25, 2008

DR. STEVEN J. LAWSON: "FOUNDATIONS OF GRACE: A Long Line of Godly Men"

MP3 Available Here

DR. STEVEN J. LAWSON, the senior pastor of Christ Fellowship Baptist Church in Mobile, Alabama, will address the theme of his latest book: "FOUNDATIONS OF GRACE: A Long Line of Godly Men."

In this first volume, Dr. Steven J. Lawson begins a projected five-volume series that traces the unbroken line of men who have taught the truths of God's sovereign grace throughout history.

Volume one is devoted to the biblical writers as well as to the Lord Jesus Christ. As Dr. Lawson shows, seven key doctrines emerge repeatedly throughout the Bible — divine election and divine reprobation, as well as the doctrines of grace. Beginning with Genesis and continuing through Revelation, Dr. Lawson demonstrates God's sovereignty in the administration of His saving grace.

Prominent Christian leaders give "FOUNDATIONS OF GRACE" glowing endorsements:

"Dr. Steve Lawson is one of the most committed and capable biblical expositors of this generation. The intensity and clarity of his commitment to biblical preaching—to true expository preaching—is the hallmark of his ministry. Beyond this, Steve Lawson understands that the text of the Bible presents a consistent witness to God's sovereignty and the panoramic display of God's glory. All this is evident in his preaching ministry and in his writing ministry as well. Dr. Lawson is a remarkable man driven by a remarkable passion."— R. Albert Mohler, Jr., President, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

“Faithful pastor Steve Lawson, in Foundations of Grace, traverses the rich and varied terrain of the Bible to introduce you to the one true God and his sovereign saving love from the whole of Scripture, in ways that you may never have fully appreciated before. The doctrines of grace and the sovereignty of God are joy-giving, life-changing, Christ-exalting, God-glorifying, missions-motivating, evangelism-encouraging, and discipleship-promoting truths. If you think that the teaching of God’s sovereignty in sinners’ salvation is a man-made idea, you’ll think again after you’ve walked through the Bible with Dr. Lawson. But beware, this truth, when understood and embraced, is soul-transforming, heart-animating, and life-altering. Dr. Lawson himself is a man changed by this truth. He has boldly and bravely and gladly proclaimed it, at great personal cost, but much to the glory of God, the good of the church, and the joy of sinners who have been found by the amazing grace of God. Prepare to delight in the lovingkindness of the Lord, which lasts forever!"— J. Ligon Duncan III, PhD, Senior Minister, First Presbyterian Church, Jackson, Mississippi, Adjunct Professor, Reformed Theological Seminary, President, Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals

“We live in an age in which the church has once again fallen under Martin Luther’s sharp critique of his contemporary, Erasmus: “Your God is too man-like. . . . Let God be God!” Gripped in mind and heart by the twin truths of God’s total sovereignty and His amazing grace, Steve Lawson compellingly traces these themes from the beginning to the end of Scripture. There is no better way than this to learn theology, and no other way to learn to hold the truth of Scripture with the balance of Scripture and in the spirit of Scripture. Foundations of Grace shows, in a multitude of ways, that the Scriptures are useful “for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness.” May it help the contemporary church to rediscover that glorious divine quadrivium!” — Dr. Sinclair B. Ferguson, Senior pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Columbia, S.C.

“The doctrines of grace are often misunderstood and mischaracterized. This helpful new book explains them thoughtfully and well. May God use it for His glory and others’ good.”— Dr. D. James Kennedy, Senior minister, Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.


“Steven Lawson clearly and comprehensively lays the scriptural groundwork for the doctrines of grace.”— Dr. John MacArthur, Pastor-teacher, Grace Community Church, Sun Valley, Calif. (from his foreword)

“As Dr. Steve Lawson’s reconnaissance of this matter so clearly shows, God’s sovereignty is manifest throughout sacred Scripture. . . . When you finish reading this book, I would wonder and worry if you continue to persist in denying the full measure of God’s sovereignty in our salvation. Dr. Lawson has shown so clearly and conclusively that salvation is of the Lord and of His sovereign grace that he dusted off the spot where the opponents of this doctrine once stood. I, for one, am grateful for this labor of love, and for the elucidation and hope that those who read it will take to heart.”— Dr. R.C. Sproul, Minister of preaching and teaching, Saint Andrew’s Chapel, Sanford, Fla. (from his afterword)

In addition to his pastoral duties at Christ Fellowship Baptist Church in Mobile, Alabama, Dr. Lawson serves on the board of directors of The Master's College and on the ministerial board for Reformed Theological Seminary and teaches with Dr. John MacArthur at the Expositor's Institute. Dr. Lawson has written numerous books, including "The Expository Genius of John Calvin" and "Famine in the Land: A Passionate Call for Expository Preaching."

You can listen to free downloadable MP3s of two previous interviews with Dr. Lawson on John Calvin here and here.
Iron Sharpens Iron 30 Day Archive

"As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend"- Proverbs 27:17