Verse of the Day 📖✝️

For it is with our hearts ♥️

 that we believe & are justified,

 & it is with our mouth😮

 that we profess our faith ✝️ 

& are saved.

Romans 10:10

"Hope for the praying 🙏 Christian parent - " ✝️♥️

https://www.mnnonline.org/news/hope-for-the-praying-christian-parent/ 

"You bring that child to Jesus and let Jesus do His mighty work in their life. But don't abandon His work. Don't back down. Don't retreat because of the attack of the enemy. You're the real target. Take your stand against the devil's schemes and let Jesus do that work in your child's heart to bring that lamb back home."

"A click away from the Gospel: Christian media in Muslim countries "- Mission Network News

https://www.mnnonline.org/news/a-click-away-from-the-gospel-christian-media-in-muslim-countries/ 

"Denise Godwin from the International Media Ministries says: "It's the Holy Spirit at work in the Middle East. People [are] getting a chance to peek outside the curtain of their own country, see what's happening in the world, and start exploring ideas."

Our beloved 1st CRC is leaving the mother ship 😞"Founding Congregation to Exit Christian Reformed Church "- Christianity Today

https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/02/crc-split-lgbtq-reformed-grand-rapids-first-church/ 

Verse of the Day 2.14.25

Then Jesus said to them,

 "Watch out! Be on your guard

 against all kinds of greed;

 life does not consist in

 an abundance of possessions."

        -Luke 12:15-

"The Abandonment Of Truth Comes With A Painfully High Cost "- Harbinger's Daily

https://harbingersdaily.com/the-abandonment-of-truth-comes-with-a-painfully-high-cost/ 

1/28/25 Verse of the Day: Truly I tell you,” Jesus replied..

Truly I tell you," Jesus replied, "no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age: homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—along with persecutions—and in the age to come eternal life."

   -Mark 10:29-30-

"CHRISTIAN AMERICA AT THE CROSSROADS "

https://www.wnd.com/2024/12/christian-america-at-the-crossroads/ 

"Concluded Francis Schaeffer: "Here is the great evangelical disaster – the failure of the evangelical world to stand for truth as truth. There is only one word for this – namely accommodation: the evangelical church has accommodated to the world spirit of the age."

And remember, Schaeffer was writing about evangelicals, who generally are more conservative, as opposed to so-called "mainline" Protestants who tend to be more liberal-left..."

This whole thing is bizarre "Not Guilty Verdict for Former Pastor Charged with 1975 Murder | "The Banner

https://www.thebanner.org/news/2025/01/not-guilty-verdict-for-former-pastor-charged-with-1975-murder 

Why did he ALLEGEDLY confess to it in the first place ? What's the back story ? there's more to it than meets the eye ?

Verse of the Day

"Take up the Helmet of Salvation✝️ 

& the Sword ⚔️ of the Spirit, 

which is the Word 📖 of God" 🕊️ 

       -Ephesians 6:17-

#NeverViolence 🚫

#AlwaysPeace 🕊️✌️🙂

: "Global Prayer Guide - The Voice of the Martyrs "

https://www.persecution.com/globalprayerguide/ 

Verse of the Day:

'Finally, brothers & sisters, whatever is True,

 whatever is Noble, 

whatever is Right, 

whatever is Pure, 

whatever is Lovely, 

whatever is Admirable—

if anything is Excellent or Praiseworthy—

think about such things.

           -Philippians 4:8-

you were once Darkness,but now you are Light ☀️ in the Lord.

"For you were 

once Darkness,

but now you are

Light ☀️ in the Lord. 

Walk as Children 

of Light ✝️

      -Ephesians 5:8 -

"Cast thy bread 🍞 upon the waters 🌊: for thou shalt find it after many days. ..-

"Cast thy  bread 🍞 upon the waters 🌊: for thou shalt find it after many days. Give a portion to seven, & also to eight; for thou knowest not what evil 👿 shall be upon the earth"🌎 

      -Ecclesiastes 11-

"Young men are leaving traditional churches for a more ‘masculine’ alternative: Orthodox Church

https://www.yahoo.com/news/young-men-leaving-traditional-churches-171506770.html 

"Heritage’s Kevin Roberts to Hugh Hewitt: The American Republic Is Dead If We Don’t Revitalize Our FAITH "

https://townhall.com/tipsheet/salem-news-channel/2024/12/20/heritages-kevin-roberts-to-hugh-hewitt-the-american-republic-is-dead-if-we-dont-revitalize-our-faith-n2649380 

"Calvin Mourns Several Losses |" Christian Reformed Church

https://www.crcna.org/news-and-events/news/calvin-mourns-several-losses 

Verse of the Day 12/16/24

"Good will come to

 those who are Generous 

& Lend freely, 

who conduct their 

affairs with Justice.'

   -Psalm 112:5

let us be AWAKE

So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober.

1 Thessalonians 5:6

👍📖"Open license content paving way for Bible translation "- Mission Network News

https://www.mnnonline.org/news/open-license-content-paving-way-for-bible-translation/ 

"

Thanks to the collaboration of multiple translation organizations, and to computer software developed by unfoldingWord, Church-Centric Bible Translation work is becoming increasingly possible all over the globe..."

Verse of the Day, 📖 12/5/24

What good will it be

 for someone to 

gain the whole world, 🌍 

 yet forfeit their soul? 

 For what can anyone 

give in exchange 

for their soul?

      -Matthew 16:26

👍🙏✝️🇺🇲"'Resurgence': Christian leaders see a 4th 'Great Awakening' as Americans flock to Jesus * "

https://www.wnd.com/2024/12/resurgence-christian-leaders-see-a-4th-great-awakening-as-americans-flock-to-jesus/ 

"

Despite overall book sales increasing by only 1% compared to 2023, Bible sales in the U.S. have reached an impressive 22% increase as of October 2024, according to the Wall Street Journal

"There have been three Great Awakenings in America, and a few smaller ones," Burleson continued. "I believe we are in the beginning of a fourth Great Awakening and it is a response to inflation (financial panic), pandemics (Covid), wars (global), and the sudden death of stability in America. There is no anchor in life better than the Anchor of Hope, and when the ship of life is tossed to and fro, faith awakens."

Did you know that the original Butterball founder was a Calvin alum & a CRC'er ? &his 9kids are GRCH alum?Read more👇

Happy Thanksgiving 🦃 from the Original Butterball family (when it was exclusively associated with butter,not turkey)

https://x.com/AmeriPrayer1/status/1862147213285105824?t=U4yAzb825Q21acyKQpH-_g&s=19

Happy 

#Thanksgiving 

🦃! ✝️🙏🇺🇲

This little guy with his bicycle 🚲 was the actual 'Butterball' founder ( not originally associated with turkey but butter 🧈.Makes sense doesn't it ? ). 

Read the whole story of the 'Butterball Family 👇👇

https://peters-appreciation.blogspot.com/2015/12/they-should-do-this-w-butterball.html?m=1

Fascinating discussion " Pro-Life vs. Abolition: Which Way Will the Church Go? | Guest: Jeff Durbin |"

 11/18/24 on Castbox. Check out this episode! https://castbox.fm/vb/754468114 

https://castbox.fm/vb/754468114

The Eyes 👀 of the Lord ✝️

The Eyes 👀 of the Lord ✝️

Upon the righteous ⚖️👍

 rest His gaze 🌟,

A light 💡 that shines thru 

all our days 🌄.

His ears👂attentive, 

hear our plea 📜,

In whispered prayer 🙏 

or on bended knee 🛐

The humble heart ❤️,

 the faithful soul ✨,

Find shelter 🛡️ 

in His kind control🤲.

But the Face 😐

 of the Lord ✝️ 

turns stern 🌀,

Against the wicked 🚫👹👎, 

who never learn 📉

For evil 💔🚷 deeds 

He will not abide ⚔️,

His justice ⚖️ swift, 

His truth our guide 

So walk 🚶‍♀️ the path 

of grace 💖 and love 💕,

And find His blessings 🌿 

from above ☁️

The Lord ✝️ is near 

to those who call 📣,

To the righteous ⚖️👍, 

He gives His all 🕊️.

But those who harm 💢,

 deceive 🕸️, & stray 🌪️,

Will meet His wrath 🔥

 along the way 🛑

Choose the light 🌟, 

the righteous road 🛤️,

Let kindness 🌻 

be your heart's abode 🏠.

For the Eyes 👀 

of the Lord ✝️ always see 👓,

And His love ❤️

 endures eternally ♾️

- Inspired by 1 Peter 3:12

Re: What doesn't Kill Me makes me Stronger💪✝️ #WDKM

:

What doesn't Kill Me makes me Stronger💪✝️ #WDKM

mind the gap ! "Mind the Power Gap in Missions"

https://www.christianitytoday.com/2024/10/global-church-majority-world-missions-sunday-giving-power-gap/

About | Unknown Nations

https://www.unknownnations.com/about 

"

To reach the unknown nations at the ends of the Earth—completing the last four words of Jesus' calling .."

https://www.unknownnations.com/stories

"Questions that Muslim background believers face after conversion "- Mission Network News

https://www.mnnonline.org/news/questions-that-muslim-background-believers-face-after-conversioh/ 

Inviting Muslims to accept Christ ✝️ as Savior! "Find the Truth - I Found the Truth"

https://www.ifoundthetruth.com/find-the-truth/ 

"Almond Valley CRC in Ripon, CA, caravanned 900 miles to the Navajo reservation in New Mexico to help a fellow CRC in need. "

https://www.thebanner.org/our-shared-ministry/2024/10/churches-serving-churches 

👍✝️🙏🇺🇲"Donald Trump Tells 1,500 Christian Pastors and Leaders, "I'm Behind You All the Way" - "

https://www.lifenews.com/2024/10/29/donald-trump-tells-1500-christian-pastors-and-leaders-im-behind-you-all-the-way/ 

Happy Reformation Day - ! Keep on Reforming ✝️👍

https://www.google.com/search?q=reformation+day&client=ms-opera-mini-android&channel=new&tpsf=opminienpf#ebo=0 

Prayer for POTUS Trump

Be strong & bold, don't be dismayed
The Lord is with you, don't be afraid
Wherever you walk, His light will shine
Guiding your steps, His will divine
Fear NOT the storm, nor dark of night
For God's own hand will lead you right

See more 
(https://x.com/AmeriPrayer1/status/1846857308581908793?t=D6AmRL1c-xZtgYVAUpM7JA&s=03) 

"There is Something About the Name of Jesus You Are Going to Need to Know | Awakening? "

https://m.beforeitsnews.com/awakening-start-here/2024/10/there-is-something-about-the-name-of-jesus-you-are-going-to-need-to-know-27-20557.html 

Ode to Life 🙏✝️👶👼🤱👨‍🍼👩‍🍼🧑‍🍼

(https://x.com/PRAISETRIUNEGOD/status/1843703365748044236?t=pMHLI2hsizvi7Wb7PGWJUg&s=03) 

🙏✝️🤎👶👼🤱👨‍🍼👩‍🍼🧑‍🍼

From the moment of conception's spark,

A life begins, though small & stark.

A precious soul, so pure & new,

A gift from God✝️, both bright & true.

In the womb, God knows their name,

Each tiny heartbeat💓 ,not the same.

In His image, they are made,

With love so deep, it will not fade.

Before their eyes 👀 have seen the day,

God has planned their every way.

Innocence wrapped in tender form,

A miracle within the storm.

Their hands are small, their hearts so light,

They are precious in His sight.

Each child a wonder, life divine,

God's perfect ⭐work, His grand design.

He knew them long before their birth,

Each baby carries endless worth.

With purpose woven into time,

A life ordained by hands sublime.

How can we then ignore the plea,

To guard them with sincerity?

To shield the innocent from harm,

And cradle them within our arms?

For they are souls with futures bright,

Created for His holy light.

The Lord commands us to defend,

The unborn 🕊️ life He longs to mend.

So let us stand for those unseen,

For every child, both pure & clean.

In love, protect them from all strife,

For in God's eyes, they carry life.

Each baby's worth is more than gold,

A treasure that cannot be sold.

To save, to love, to nurture too,

For every life, God calls on You

🙏✝️🤎👶👼🤱👨‍🍼👩‍🍼🧑‍🍼

Fair Election Poem 🗳️🗽👍🇺🇲

(https://x.com/PRAISETRIUNEGOD/status/1843697372653859256?t=kkFTVThTSXUy-2NP4ftHJg&s=03) 

In elections🗳️, a voice should be earned,

With laws of the land duly learned.

To cast a vote in a nation's plan,

You must first be a citizen, woman or man.

When rules are bent, & lines blur thin,

It's unfair to those who've registered in.

For every vote made from an unlawful hand,

A legal vote is silenced, dismissed, or banned.

Citizens pay taxes, abide by the laws,

They should have the right to support a cause.

But when someone unvetted steps in to vote,

It tips the scales, a sinking boat.

Citizenship is the price to pay,

For a voice in the country's election day.

And if one's here illegally,

Should they influence our democracy?

A system's integrity must stand tall,

For the benefit of one & all.

So, let's ensure it's clear & fair,

That only those who belong, DECLARE 🇺🇲👍🗽

''The Unstoppable Gospel in North Korea" - International Christian Concern

https://www.persecution.org/2024/09/19/the-unstoppable-gospel-in-north-korea-2/ 

"Despite relentless efforts to extinguish Christianity (and any religion for that matter), brave souls like Illyong Ju, a North Korean defector, continue to spread the message of hope and resilience..."

i was wondering what happ'd to Jim V- Bosch one of my English profs. Apparently he's not happy with the CRC anymore

The churches – Calvin Church, Grace Church, and Church of the Servant (COS) – join Sherman Street Church in leaving the CRC. 

i was wondering what happ'd to Jim V- Bosch one of my English profs who I really appreciated ( I still remember "Anonymous Bosch" in the Chimes).  Apparently he's not happy with the CRC anymore after Synod 2024 ( btw, i was there! not as a CRC delegate, but just an interested individual who grew up in the CRC & GR, mostly).  I  sensed he wasn't a far -right conservative (neither am I) but I thought he was a moderate with some theological convictions about the danger of too much "compromise".  I personally agree with the CRC decision because I feel the church must have a minimum set of standards before it becomes meaningless.

 It's sad to see these CRC churches deciding to leave the denomination. I pray for the Lord to convict their hearts and turn them in the right direction! Hear our prayer Lord. 

"If you're not in agreement, you've got a year to change your mind. And then after that time, you are going to be forced to leave the denomination," said James Vanden Bosch, professor emeritus of English and a member of Calvin Church's disaffiliation committee. "We'd rather do it on our own terms and our own schedule."

NOTE: 

I attended three of the four churches above periodically during college. I remember when COS was starting out in the gym at Seymour School. I remember Jack Roeda. He was a great pastor & seemed to like me  (until he was told some false & blasphemous rumors about me spread by some of my so-called "friends" who I didn't realize were so far left; and actually despised me for being moderate, if not conservative at the time. They set a "honey pot" trap to try to bring me down; and when it failed they spread false rumors anyways. I wasn't savvy enough at the time to realize what they were doing. Shame shame shame on them). 

 And I remember Mark Vermaire preaching at Sherman (one time he played the song "What if God was one of us; just a slob like some of us" (by Alanis Morrisette) as a sermon illustration.  I also remember the pastor from Grace during the 80's when the Diekemas attended there, and then Jack Kooreman took over (he was in my Greek class at RBC). And my parents were married at Calvin CRC, a short walk from my mother's EGR childhood home. 

We pray for you to reconsider before you make a decision that will probably never be reversed. It's forever. Talk to God on your knees. 

https://calvinchimes.org/2024/09/21/three-grand-rapids-churches-submit-letters-of-disaffiliation-to-the-crcna/

Remember the Muslims: for Christ !

"Lessons Learned after 500 Visits to Prison | " Christian Reformed Church

https://www.crcna.org/news-and-events/news/lessons-learned-after-500-visits-prison 

WHAT IS WORSE than a far-left immoral radical lefty liberal dem (FLIRL dem) ⁉️

1. A FLIRL dem who just discovered CrossFit

2. A FLIRL dem with a podcast

3. A FLIRL dem in charge of the group text

4. A FLIRL dem who's also your mother-in-law

5. A FLIRL dem with a megaphone at 6 a.m.

6. A FLIRL dem that's also a vegan influencer

7. A FLIRL dem who doesn't use headphones on public transportation

8. A FLIRL dem who corrects your grammar at parties

9. A FLIRL dem that just binged all of "West Wing"

10. A FLIRL dem who insists on discussing astrology at every dinner party

👍😀"Seattle pastor arrested for reading the Bible WINS legal battle "

https://www.christianpost.com/news/seattle-pastor-arrested-for-reading-the-bible-wins-legal-battle.html 

"The legal agreement allows the pastor the freedom to share the Gospel in Seattle without the threat of arrest, coupled with monetary compensation for past grievances and attorneys' fees..."

Does Calvin College need more Pranksters ?

https://www.calvin.edu/library/database/crcpi/fulltext/spark/67186.htm 

Melvin Dale Hugen (1931 -) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

https://archives.calvin.edu/?p=creators/creator&id=175 

"discriminated against for being Christian Reformed" true story

 

Vote Your Values ✝️"Ralph Reed on The Power of Christian Voters: How Their Voice Can Shape Election Victory for Christian Values -"

https://warroom.org/ralph-reed-on-the-power-of-christian-voters-how-their-voice-can-shape-election-victory-for-christian-values/ 

"Brat and Reed's discussion took a motivational turn as Reed detailed the Faith and Freedom Coalition's ambitious plan to mobilize voters. "We will knock on 10 million doors and reach 17 to 18 million Evangelical and pro-life Roman Catholic voters at their homes between now and November 5th..."

I HOPE MOST CHRISTIANS 

ARE PRO LIFE 💜✝️👍🇺🇲👶

👼🤱👨‍🍼👩‍🍼🧑‍🍼

Major Christian denomination dumping the word 'church' :* the "Church" of England is no longer a "church"

https://www.wnd.com/2024/08/major-christian-denomination-dumping-the-word-church/ 

👍✝️🙏🌎"Amazing 'Jesus Revolution' Reported in Iran - Mosques Close as Muslims Turn to Christianity | "

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2024/08/amazing-jesus-revolution-reported-iran-mosques-close-muslims/ 

"

And the people of Iran are looking at this and they are saying, 'Wait a minute. If this is what Islam has brought us in the last 45 years, we're not interested. We want to know what the other options are.'"

"What does it mean to "regard iniquity in my heart"?

What does it mean to regard iniquity in my hear\

"What does it mean to "regard iniquity in my heart"? It means to keep a sin in one's heart, being unwilling to part with it. Such a person knows something is a sin, yet he continues to cherish it. It is not only a weakness in conduct or appearance but also a craving in the heart"

see Psalm 66.18

there was a lot of misunderstanding & mis- speculation about why I left Grand Rapids

there was a lot of misunderstanding & mis- speculation about why I left Grand Rapids 

... some of you who follow my blog know a little about me and my family.. and how we moved from GR to California when I was a senior in high school, but I finished school in GR, and then went on to Calvin for more than 4 years. After my first BA I got a 2nd BA - making it 6 years, plus a year & a half at Calvin Sem, plus a year working at Pine Rest as a Mental Health Worker ... so I was a loyal GR resident for a long time with lots of GR heritage . In between all these years I would come and go for short or long spells. A semester in Spain. A semester in Hawaii. a few summers back in CA . Finally after I got a teaching degree (before I returned to seminary) I left for 2 years and taught school in CA . But i came right back to GR after those 2 years- and stayed for a year. Then I returned to CA and attended Fuller Sem. And now I regularly visit GR but no longer reside there full-time or part-time. However, I have heard things "thru the grapevine" - those kind of urban myths that evolve when people don't know anything truly factual about your life and whereabouts. They only hear little bits and pieces, and some of that may be transmitted by nefarious rivals who want to make me look bad (yes, even "good Christians" can do that sometimes). Truth is I simply moved on - beginning with my teaching - and later as a CHristian evangelist. I came VERY CLOSE to settling down in GR - the good ol' married with kids" thingamajig, but I knew God was calling me to be a missionary /evangelist, maybe even to Africa and I knew that even though the final gal I dated was a sincere Christian (from Calvin & South CHristian), I also knew she was a "Michigan girl" and would never be happy or even willing being a "missionary wife" out in the big bad world somewhere. It was the hardest thing in my life to do- because I respected her so much - and some other Michigan girls who were good spouse possibilities - but I had to be true to my calling from God. That's not to say I've always been perfectly obedient or become a classic African missionary - never did end up there (except for some short-term mission trips. But I hope this helps end any wild speculation about me and my whereabouts and who I am and what I represent, or try to. I continue to live as a CHristian evangelist and daily engage in concrete activities to reach others with the Good News of Jesus Christ our Savior ! Please pray for me. God bless you all 

"What Elon Musk said about Jesus Christ surprised everyone. “If Jesus is saving people…” - THE TRUTH

https://patriottruths.com/what-elon-musk-said-about-jesus-christ-surprised-everyone-if-jesus-is-saving-people/ 

Elon Musk was invited to accept Jesus Christ as Savior: 

"Musk paused before responding, expressing his agreement with the teachings of Jesus. He highlighted the importance of principles such as "turn the other cheek," forgiveness, and loving one's neighbor. Musk humorously added, "But hey, if Jesus is saving people, I mean, I won't stand in His way. Sure, I'll be saved. Why not?"

WAS HE JUST BORN AGAIN? 

there was a guy named Bob

Bob Devries, oh what a sight to behold,
A man with a story, both brash and bold.
With a wink and a smile, he'd take the stage,
Loving the spotlight, the center, the rage.

Narcissism's charm was his favorite delight,
He'd bask in the glory, from morning to night.
Like a ham in the limelight, he thrived on the cheers,
Yet his antics to embarrass brought mostly sneers.

The success he achieved, well, that's quite a tale,
It came from his name, not from hard work or scale.
His father's science legacy, 
Gave Bob all the fame, but not a true friend.

In Grand Rapids he stayed, a homegrown delight,
Never venturing far, never soaring to heights.
He knew his own town like the back of his hand,
But the world's greater lessons he'd never quite understand.

He was kind of a homeboy, with comfort so dear,
Yet the world passed him by, year after year.
So much to discover, so much to explore,
But Bob never ventured outside his own door.

He quit far too early, left much still undone,
His potential was vast, but he never did run.
The lessons of life were left to the breeze,
For Bob Devries missed out, on much that he could seize.

So here's to Bob Devries, a tale so entwined,
A character of charm, but with much left behind.
A life lived in shadows, in the comfort of home,
With a name and a legacy, but a heart still unknown.

there was a guy named Roger Greenway

In a quaint town where the church bells ring,

Lived Roger Greenway, a man with a sting,

Son of a pastor with a pious grace,

Yet Roger felt lost in that holy space.

With a heart full of longing, he'd often confide,

In his father's shadow, he could never abide,

Comparisons haunted, each step felt so small,

In a world where he'd never quite measure up at all.

Jealousy brewed in the corners of his mind,

Seeing others succeed, while he fell behind,

Not the brightest of sparks in the academic dome,

He trudged on a path far from his true home.

He'd found his way to a professor's role,

Yet his missionary dreams took a different toll,

Never a beacon in the foreign lands,

His work seemed to falter, slipping through his hands.

Petty and mean-spirited at times he'd be,

His harshness a shield from the eyes that could see,

In his fear of exposure, a truth he'd defend,

He kept up a bluff he could never amend.

Sexual insecurities, a hidden, dark plight,

Made Roger live in perpetual fright,

Maintaining a facade with every breath,

While inside, he feared the revelation of death.

His life was a struggle, a quest for some light,

Yet shortcuts and lies kept him out of sight,

A rise to the top on a shaky pretense,

Left him unfulfilled, devoid of recompense.

In the hallways of academia, his name did persist,

But behind his façade, a truth was missed,

Roger Greenway, with a heart full of dread,

Lived a life unfulfilled, with regrets left unsaid.

As the years went by, his end drew near,

With a life of false glory and unspoken fear,

A soul never content, always looking askance,

Died unhappy, a man who never took a real chance.

His story remains, a lesson so clear,

Of a man who lived in constant veneer,

A tale of a life marred by doubt and disguise,

Who found in the end that truth never lies.

Prayers for ✝️💜🙏"A Silent Slaughter: The Ongoing Persecution of Christians in Nigeria -"

https://www.persecution.org/2024/07/23/a-silent-slaughter-the-ongoing-persecution-of-christians-in-nigeria/ 

"During the past week, Islamic Fulani extremists have killed numerous Christians in North Central Nigeria, particularly in Benue and Plateau states.."

when I was a student at Fuller Seminary around 1998 somebody left this to be found on one of the 4th floor carrels ( i think i know who did it: a female busybody fuller employee

 

when I was a student at Fuller around 1998 somebody left this to be found on one of the 4th floor carrels ( i think i know who did it: a busybody female fuller employee

 pretty sick stuff, eh ? my hunch is that this lady/gal left it for me because she had gossiped about me (perhaps with the president of the seminary, et al) - they had decided to go on the attack against me as a "jerk off" (which was a common derogatory thing back in the 70's but has somewhat phased out of usage) . usually it was lefty liberals using it against conservatives to diminish us or "other" us. Sort of like a "witch hunt" - they attack you  below-the-belt to try to make you deligit. This is a lefty liberal tactic that they've been practicing for years in politics. But I didn't expect it at the seminary.  Frankly, it's pretty disgusting of her to do this. She had black hair and worked in some small office on the 4th floor. And she always gave me the evil eye when she passed by. She knew where I sat so by placing it nearby it seems like she intended for me to find it. I post this on the CRC website as well because there were people who did this at CRC back in the day too, and they need to be "outed" for their bad behavior & harrassment . , 

a lot smaller "Christian Reformed Church acquires East Beltline building for downsized office"

https://www.crainsgrandrapids.com/news/real-estate/christian-reformed-church-acquires-east-beltline-building-for-downsized-office/

dealing with grief

"Beyond Bible translation: how unfoldingWord helps church leaders create study resources -"

https://www.mnnonline.org/news/beyond-bible-translation-how-unfoldingword-helps-church-leaders-create-study-resources/ 

"We want to equip the Church with the ability to translate the Bible for themselves in every language. But we also want to equip the Church for spiritual formation and discipleship," Dane* with unfoldingWord says.

"We're not just handing out Bibles; we are developing Bible translators."

"Collaboration in Christ: the “sweet spot” in audio 🎧🧝Bible distribution "-👍📖✝️🙏

https://www.mnnonline.org/news/collaboration-in-christ-the-sweet-spot-in-audio-bible-distribution/ 

Watch "July 27, 2024 BAPTISM 🕊️event at Pirates Cove CA 🏖️#JesusRevolution✝️🙏👍Greg Laurie Harvest" on YouTube

https://youtube.com/shorts/Ec8BXXtaxj8?si=8PzBZE2fMHXm4WRH 

July 27, 2024 BAPTISM 🕊️event at Pirates Cove 🏖️#JesusRevolution✝️🙏👍Greg Laurie Harvest

https://youtube.com/shorts/vu787MqkZIA?si=CQA-E6TzPvFVGVfH 

"Archaeologists make 'sensational' discovery at location where Jesus was resurrected" | Dae

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-13672003/Archaeologists-altar-Jesus-Jerusalem.html?ito=email_share_article-top 

"The site of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is identified as the place of both the crucifixion and the tomb of Jesus, and sees around four million visitors each year.."

"The True Essence Of FASTING |" Terry Cheek : Blue Ridge Christian News

https://blueridgechristiannews.com/the-true-essence-of-fasting-terry-cheek/ 

🇺🇸✝️🙏❤️Live video of President Trump being shot at by sniper . He's ok ✝️🙏🇺🇲❤️👍. Thank You God

🇺🇸✝️🙏❤️

Live video of

President Trump 

 being shot at by sniper . 

He's ok ✝️🙏🇺🇲❤️👍.

Thank You God 

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=fYfvSspaJtk

Prayers for Trump 🙏✝️❤️🇺🇲"Donald Trump Says He Was "Shot With A Bullet That Pierced The Upper Part Of My Right Ear"

http://opr.news/8395430240713en_us?link=1&client=mini 

good stuff 👍Watch "If You Grew Up in the 1970s – You Remember..." on YouTube

https://youtu.be/nkeCJ1F2cf8?si=5Cd9CU7CsvMllQhe 

I hate to bust your bubble buddy about PREDESTINATION, but ...

I hear radio preachers etc regularly bash so-called "Calvinists" about predestination. Hate to inform them but MOST of us Calvinists (those from the Reformed denominations) RARELY dwell upon predestination. It's something taught a few times periodically growing up & that's about it. We don't sit around and talk about being ' predestined'

"If You Won’t Listen To The Lord For His Blessings, You Will Listen To Him In His Judgments "- The Washington Standard

https://thewashingtonstandard.com/if-you-wont-listen-to-the-lord-for-his-blessings-you-will-listen-to-him-in-his-judgments/ 

🙏prayers for : Steven W. Venhuizen . Logos Christian Community - Google Search

He was a little bit of a pompous jerk back in Calvin when he was in seminary starting out as a Preacher Man, and I was still undergrad. He had that Canadian attitude combined with new pastor-preacher attitude, and condescension towards Americans, specially undergrads. Hopefully he's become a better person these days . we pray for him. 

https://www.google.com/search?q=Steven+W.+Venhuizen%0AServed.+Logos+Christian+Community&client=ms-opera-mini-android&channel=new 

Trish borgdorff is sister of Arlene, who is married to Dan DeKam , a CRCNA leader of sorts. Are they affirmers as well ?

https://www.woodtv.com/news/grand-rapids/churches-prepare-to-leave-crc-following-lgbtq-decision/ 

Dan DeKam's brother "Kenneth Lee DeKam Obituary (2024) Muskegon, MI " Dan is leader at CRCNA denom building

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/kenneth-dekam-obituary?id=54446092 

CRC made Bold, Strong, Right Decision at Synod 2024

"The CRC Synod this year voted to call affirming churches into a process of discipline. Those churches must publicly repent and withdraw their affirming statements, or they must disaffiliate from the denomination. If the churches do neither, they will be removed from fellowship with the denomination..."

https://www.woodtv.com/news/grand-rapids/churches-prepare-to-leave-crc-following-lgbtq-decision/ 

Unfort, looks like @crcna Synod has permanently turned off YT commentary

Unfort, looks like @crcna Synod has permanently turned off YouTube commentary after  Monday's invasion by secular lefties. I understand. However, during less contentious sessions, it would be nice for normal CRC people to be able to interact worldwide via comments
https://www.youtube.com/live/NBaeJxWCEd8?si=W3CKtPnbWfHnAEzD

6.18.24 Email to CRC Synod

To whom it may concern: as you know, the  CRC is in session this week and they are live streaming with a  20-minute delay on YouTube, and commentary is allowed.

 I come from a long line of CRC pastors and much Dutch Christian reform heritage, and so I'm on YouTube watching and praying and commenting. And my comments are appropriate and on task to the topic being discussed. 

And yet I have found out that there are what I call "YouTube assassins" with a political agenda, false flagging commentary they don't like, and getting the YouTube moderator (somebody who regulates the CRC YouTube channel for synod) to shut down my commentary, and others. And it seemed like it was mostly they were shutting down conservative commentary.

 So I'm just wondering who is this CRC YouTube channel moderator, and are they being unduly influenced by false flaggers who are trying to affect the agenda of the CRC according to their personal political persuasions.

 Earlier in the day as I was interacting with other  commentators, one YouTube person admitted to me that he's not a Christian, nor interested in the CRC, but is there to attack the CRC doctrines and confessions. 

These are the types of people that are false flagging my commentary and others like me and persuading the YouTube channel moderator to block us from commenting (& praying online). 

I hope the moderator him or herself is not such a person but that they're being unduly influenced by the false flaggers. Could somebody please look into this and make sure that the moderator is not somebody with a personal political agenda ? 

And give them a heads up that there are those who are trying to sabotage the commentary for their own personal agenda, mostly towards the left. 

Crypto-libs were bombarding YouTube commentary last night as the @CRCNA Synod voted ..

Crypto-libs were bombarding YouTube commentary last night as the @CRCNA Synod voted about the so called 'gravamen' policy. Fortunately, wiseheads prevailed and they overwhelmingly voted the right way 👍✝️. 

These  libs even false- flagged my conservative YT commentary to try shut me down. Fortunately I was able to switch to another channel and continue commenting as well as praying with fervor for the right decision. ✝️              👍🕊️🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

*The problem is that some of these libs are not even affiliated or interested in the CRC. They've just gotten on the bandwagon like lefties do around the country to try to bring down another conservative institution to comply to their lefty agenda. One commenter even admitted he was NOT even a Christian & was just there to contradict the teachings of the CRC. 

Are secular lefty activist targeting the Christian Reformed Church ?

The @CRCNA for those who don't know is the Christian Reformed Church North America and they have a Synod every year which is kind of comparable to the way Congress works. There are motions & agendas &time to speak for or against etc. they also live stream with 20 minute delay to YouTube, & allow commentary.

 However, they are those with a lefty agenda who have discovered they can propagandize via commentary against the conservative agenda of the CRC. And the same Lefty activists also will false flag conservative commentary making it more likely that conservatives get blocked by the moderator despite the CRC being a historically conservative denomination. 

 Fortunately however on this important motion tonight the spirit of wisdom prevailed, praise the Lord. I was praying mightily for it to happen.

Meanwhile I hope somebody can reach out to the YouTube moderator (an unnamed CRC staff member) & let them know that they're being played like a puppet by these Lefty activists. (Or, God forbid,  that this moderator him or herself is a lefty activist 👎). 

It's sort of like that cake bakery that refused to bake or design a cake celebrating gay marriage. The gay activists keep going back to him and still do trying to get him into legal trouble, even though there's hundreds of other bakeries who would gladly make them whatever kind of cake they want. 

I'm afraid this is what these activists are trying to do to the CRC. There are numerous denominations especially Presbyterians and Methodist now who welcome any kind of marriage even the pastors can be gay. These activists  insist & demand that the CRC comply as well. Even though  they could go to a presbyterian or Methodist half a mile away. 

(https://x.com/PRAISETRIUNEGOD/status/1802895893210751083?t=gF6L9m95pXx9TdmCPWR5OA&s=03) 

Synod 2024 Liveblog, YES ! Holy Wisdom prevailed 👍🕊️🙏 6.17.24

• 10:15 - Delegates move to vote on this recommendation electronically.  The vote is 137 to 47 in FAVOUR of the motion.  

https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vSJh5glJtGkrUPvYeL9TfiuMTDxUiou-xLtelhEWPhuQFEzYWwnAwjtXBnQj11OE4t54L_67wUl2RP3/pub 

Does anybody really believe that Bob Knoor wrote this? He was never the brightest bulb if you know what I mean ?

https://calvinseminary.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/sem-impact-report-FINAL-sngl-pgs.pdf

"Experts discover earliest record of Jesus' childhood after deciphering 2,000-year-old Egyptian manuscript |"

"The 2,000-year-old papyrus - a material that predates paper - tells the lesser-known story of the 'vivification of the sparrows,' when the five-year-old Messiah is said to have turned clay pigeons into live birds, a tale also referred to as the 'second miracle.."

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-13517645/Jesus-childhood-revealed-2-000-year-old-manuscript.html 

"Discovered, Potentially Corroborate Bible Story of God's Angel Killing 185,000 Assyrian Soldiers | "

"The story, as told in the Bible, recounts how God sent an angel to thwart an army of Assyrian soldiers intent on conquering the Holy Land around 2,700 years ago. The Angel of the Lord is said to have descended upon the advancing military, killing 185,000 soldiers in a single night..."

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2024/06/ancient-military-base-discovered-potentially-corroborate-bible-story/ 

Awesome 👍 🎵"Grand Haven Praise by the Pier 2024 - Grand Haven MI

https://visitgrandhaven.com/event/praise-by-the-pier-2023/2024-06-16/ 

Slippery slope. What's next : u don't believe in Jesus but still want to attend? re CRC's "confessional difficulty gravamen"

Slippery slope. What's next : you don't believe in Jesus but you still want to attend the church? Maybe you're a Satanist but you like sitting in the church and socializing with the Christians ( or negatively influencing them?) 

 CRC concept known as "confessional difficulty gravamen" (CDG) [is problematic]"Grand Rapids Christian Reformed churches send letter to Synod on sexuality"

https://www.fox17online.com/news/local-news/grand-rapids/grand-rapids-christian-reformed-churches-send-letter-to-synod-on-sexuality 

The Calvin CRC Midwest Favoritism is REAL "Synod 2024 Elects Four Midwest Pastors as Officers "| The Banner

https://www.thebanner.org/news/2024/05/synod-2024-elects-four-midwest-pastors-as-officers 

RIP CONDOLENCES 🙏 ✝️ 💜 1976-2024: In Memoriam: Rev. Scott A. DeVries | The Banner

https://www.thebanner.org/news/2024/05/in-memoriam-rev-scott-a-devries 

Bible Mnemonics (no rights reserved, no copyright)

Bible Mnemonics
AAA: Do NOT be anxious about anything 🚫
ROGG: Radiance of God's Glory
BOM: Brothers of Mine
CAP: Called according to His purpose

ICDAT: I can do ALL things thru Christ
FOE: Fix our Eyes 👀 on Jesus✝️
FLOG: Nothing can separate us
from the Love ❤️ of God
WIG: HE has shown you
O man What is Good

HIP: HE is Patient
WESH: Who Earnestly seek Him
TAU: Transcends all understanding
TYMD: That you may declare..

BOP: NOT a spirit of Timidity but of Power 💪
BAW: Boast about Weakness
LYE:  Love your Enemies
BAND: Believe & do NOT doubt

CLIMB: I no longer live
but Christ Lives in ME
BIL: My burden is Light🕯️
CYS: Confess your sins ✝️
ASGOE: Against the spiritual Forces of evil 👿🚫

NEM: New (mercies) every morning 🌅
LYLS: Let your Light💥Shine
TRYM: Be Transformed by the
Renewing of your Mind

RAW: Reverence & Awe
FGOG: Free Gift 🎁 of God
KOA: Be Kind 🙂to one Another
GIL: God is Love ❤️ ✝️

LAGL: Live a godly Life
BOHM: Because of HIS mercies
NRLTL: Narrow road 🛣️ leads to Life
SAMN: Supply all my Needs

BAP: Blessed are the Peacemakers 🕊️✌️
SORTS: Those who Wait on the Lord shall renew their Strength 💪
OPS: Our present Suffering
GATY: Grace abound to you
SHUK: Seek HIS kingdom

TYGER: Thank you God, Eternal Reality 👍🐅
EOA: Encourage one Another
SLUM: The Spirit 🕊️ of the Lord is upon me
SIFTS: Spirit Intercedes for the Saints

WOGLA: The Word📖 of God is Living & Active
BIHD: Baptized into His Death ☠️ ☝️
FATFB: The Fullness of Assurance
that Faith ✝️ brings 

Mark your calendar 3.25.25 " to Connect '2.5 BILLION Christians' in Simultaneous Worldwide Prayer & Worship - "

https://protestia.com/2024/05/31/a-i-event-seeks-to-connect-2-5-billion-christians-in-simultaneous-worldwide-prayer-and-worship/ 

(70's pic) One of these is a famous Calvin alum missionary today

👍✝️🇺🇲 "Louisiana Set To Be First State To Require The Ten Commandments In Every Classroom"

https://share.newsbreak.com/6zrcz08u 

"Where do major US religions stand on the COVID-19 vaccination? | "

"Dutch Reformed Church

Though it is not an official church stance, many members opt out of vaccination because they believe that vaccines can interfere with their relationship with God by making them less dependent. The church has not made a specific statement about the COVID-19 vaccine."

https://www.ksl.com/article/50211951/where-do-major-us-religions-stand-on-the-covid-19-vaccination 

Is Caesar Nero the 666 of the Bible?

"Preterist theologians typically support the interpretation that 666 is the numerical equivalent of the name and title Nero Caesar (Roman Emperor 54–68 AD). Written in Aramaic, this can be valued at 666 using the Hebrew numerology of gematria, and was used to secretly speak against the emperor..."

https://www.google.com/search?q=Caesar+Nero+666+gematriya&client=ms-opera-mini-android&channel=new 

Exhibit A "Roger Greenway was one of those old school professors who s. harassed in subtle ways such as this

This goes with the previous post re same person . 

Actually I may as well re- post the words I wrote as well: 

"It would be considered sexual harassment now, but back in the day when I was a student it was common and some Christian schools and even at Calvin College for insecure male teachers or professors to needle students who threatened their insecure ego. It was their M.O. 

These teachers would take cheap shots in subtle ways about a student's "manhood" or "masculinity". One way they would do this was to raise their eyebrows and say "very creative " in response to a thought you shared or something you wrote, etc. 

Sometimes they'd just do it one-to- one. Other times they'd do it in public, even in the classroom. It was definitely not appropriate for sure but they would get away with it back then as part of their "bully pulpit." 

Because back then these self- proclaimed so-called "manly men" deemed "creativity " to be a non-masculine trait. 

Or in some cases if a professor couldn't get away with doing something demeaning himself, he would encourage another student to do so. At Calvin College and Seminary if they called you 'dude' that was also a little bit of a slur. 

For example, a professor might be speaking with one student and they might say about another student oh he's a dude," with an insinuating tone. And encourage that student to marginalize the other student as a dude. And this would also help take the light off of that professor who might be the actual less than virtuous person. It would especially help them if they could pit one student against another. 

One of the most egregious professors in this regard at Calvin Seminary was Roger Greenway (Bob DeVries may be second. Cal Van Reken was up there as well). They actually considered this unethical behavior as "gamemanship".  

Roger above all was highly threatened by my alpha male presence and more than once took some little unethical and inappropriate cheap shots at me such as the above. Or was intrusive. 

One time we had a banquet at the beginning of the year, and I had to go make a phone call. This was before cell phones, so I had to find a public phone. And we were at a public restaurant, not at the Seminary. So I stepped out for a few minutes. IT was an important phone call that couldn't wait. When I came back he was demanding, " Where were you? Where'd you go?" as if it was any of his business. I didn't even know him at that time.

I didn't even know his name. I didn't even know he was a professor. This was a banquet for new students, including professors and other staff as well. There were a lot of faces that I did not know at that time. I was not new to Calvin College; had already gotten my bachelor's degree there , but I was new to Calvin Seminary. 

He took an over- the- top special interest in everything about me which felt weird; even in this case taking special interest in why I was absent from the banquet for 5 or 10 minutes. 

What if I had been in the restroom with diarrhea or something? Is that his business as well ? This isn't like we're in elementary school or kindergarten where the teacher has to know everything about the kid like a parent. This is basically graduate school. 

Roger actually made the mistake of continuing to take shots at me even after I had left Calvin Seminary, and all the more stupidly, he did so in writing. And once I find that letter that I still have somewhere, I will post it as evidence. 

But you see these low- level professors* would use the word "creative" & other similar enigmatic words because it's ambiguous enough to use as "double speak." This way they are covering their tracks and they can deny that they meant anything derogatory, if confronted by a complaint, or a superior investigating their behavior. 

"Dude" passed as doublespeak in that regard as well because you could argue that it's an affectionate way of talking to a fellow person. 

Roger Greenway has passed away, so I won't go on and on... I won't go on any further, but it's worth mentioning because there might be some professors still trying to get away with this this sort of bully behavior, and maybe some students can pick up a few tips from this information. Greenway was part of the reason that I decided to transfer to a different Seminary. 

 Don't allow professors to take advantage of you. They have ethical responsibilities and obligations that come with their teaching position; and belittling students is a violation of those ethical standards. 

*Note: It's usually only a small amount of professors who need to use this kind of unethical "classroom control", (or even outside the classroom in some cases). It's the professors who do NOT have real great command of their content, or don't have any real command at all. So they begin struggling for class control; feel insecure , and begin belittling students as a way to silence them.

 Coincidentally, both Roger Greenway and Bob DeVries may have been hired more for "legacy" reasons, or nepotism ( ie sons of professors or pastors) rather than any real great academic command or proficiency. I'm not sure about Cal Van Reken. "

"The Kingdom of the Lord, Satan and Spiritual Warfare "| N.A.P

https://new.americanprophet.org/the-kingdom-of-the-lord-the-kingdom-of-satan-and-spiritual-warfare/ 

The owner of this blog is in this pic. Can you guess which one ?

It would be considered sexual harassment now, but back in the day..

It would be considered sexual harassment now, but back in the day when I was a student it was common and some Christian schools and even at Calvin College for insecure male  teachers or professors to needle students who threatened their insecure ego. 

These teachers would take cheap shots in subtle ways about a student's "manhood" or "masculinity". One way they  would do this was to raise their eyebrows and say "very creative "  in response to a thought you shared or something you wrote, etc. 

Sometimes they'd just do it one-to- one. Other times they'd do it in public, even in the classroom. It was definitely not appropriate for sure but they would get away with it back then as  part of their "bully pulpit." 

Because back then these self- proclaimed so-called "manly men" deemed "creativity " to be a non-masculine trait. 

Or in some cases if a professor couldn't  get away with doing something demeaning himself, he would encourage another student to do so. At Calvin College and Seminary if  they called you 'dude' that was also a little bit of a slur. 

For example, a professor might be speaking with one student and they might say about another student oh he's a dude," with an insinuating tone. And encourage that student to marginalize the other student as a dude. And this would also help take the light off of that professor who might be the actual less than virtuous person. It would especially help them if they could pit one student against another. 

One of the most egregious professors in this regard at Calvin Seminary was Roger Greenway (Bob DeVries may be second. Cal Van Reken was up there as well). They actually considered this unethical behavior as "gamemanship".  

Roger above all was highly threatened by my alpha male presence and more than once took some little unethical and inappropriate cheap shots at me such as the above. Or was intrusive. 

One time we had a banquet at the beginning of the year, and I had to go make a phone call. This was before cell phones, so I had to find a public phone. And we were at a public restaurant, not at the Seminary. So I stepped out for a few minutes.  IT was an important phone call that couldn't wait. When I came back he was demanding, " Where were you? Where'd you go?"  as if it was any of his business. I didn't even know him at that time.

I didn't even know his name. I didn't even know he was a professor. This was a banquet for new students, including professors and other staff as well. There were a lot of faces that I did not know at that time. I was not new to Calvin College; had already gotten my bachelor's degree there , but I was new to Calvin Seminary. 

He took an over- the- top special interest in everything about me which felt weird; even in this case taking special interest in why I was absent from the banquet for 5 or 10 minutes. 

What if I had been in the restroom with  diarrhea or something?  Is that his business as well ? This isn't like we're in elementary school or kindergarten where the teacher has to know everything about the kid like a parent. This is basically graduate school. 

Roger actually made the mistake of  continuing to take shots at me even after I had left  Calvin Seminary, and all the more stupidly, he did so in writing.  And once I find that letter that I still have somewhere, I will post it as evidence. 

But you see these low- level professors* would use the word "creative" & other similar enigmatic words  because it's ambiguous enough to use as "double speak." This way they are covering their tracks and they can  deny that they meant anything derogatory, if confronted by a complaint, or a  superior investigating their behavior. 

"Dude" passed as doublespeak in that regard as well because you could argue that it's an affectionate way of talking to a fellow person. 

Roger Greenway has passed away, so I won't go on and on... I won't go on any further,  but it's worth mentioning because there might be some professors still trying to get away with this this sort of bully behavior, and maybe some students can pick up a few tips from this information. Greenway was part of the reason that I decided to transfer to a different Seminary. 

 Don't allow professors to take advantage of you.  They have ethical responsibilities and obligations that come with their teaching position; and belittling students is a violation of those ethical standards. 

*Note: It's usually only a small amount of professors who need to use this kind of unethical "classroom control", (or even outside the classroom in some cases).  It's the professors who do NOT have real great command of their content, or don't have any real command at all. So they begin struggling for class control; feel insecure , and begin belittling students as a  way to silence them.

 Coincidentally,  both Roger Greenway and Bob DeVries may have been hired more for "legacy" reasons, or nepotism ( ie sons of professors or pastors)  rather than any real great academic command or proficiency.  I'm not sure about Cal Van Reken.