10 TRUTHS YOU CAN KNOW ABOUT HEAVEN Page 18

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FEBRUARY 2013 10 TRUTHS YOU CAN KNOW ABOUT HEAVEN Page 18

CURRENT ISSUES FROM A DISTINCTLY CHRISTIAN VIEW IS HEAVEN REAL?

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“It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body.” Think February 2013-Interior_Interior 1/17/13 2:03 PM Page 3

DAILY WALK 12

FEBRUARY 2013

F eatures

______10 The Apologetics of Desire: How Humanity’s Universal Longing For God Suggests His Existence JOE PUCKETT, JR.

______12 Eli’s Story KRISTIE WILLIAMS

______16 Into the Light TREVOR MAJOR

______18 10 Truths You Can Know About Heaven WESLEY WALKER 20 ______20 What the Old Testament Says About the Afterlife DEWAYNE BRYANT

______22 Grief and Hope ASHLEY SMITH

22 I n this issue

14 Proof of Heaven 27 The Rest of the Story: Connections

D epartments

4 FROM THE EDITORS 6 MAILBAG 7 SOLID GROUND 8 HEART OF THE MATTER 9 FAMILIES OF FAITH 24 SMART FAITH 26 DISSECTING DELUSIONS 28 DIGGING DEEPER 29 A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE 31 FAITH MATTERS

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EDITORS’ NOTE Brad Harrub, Keith Parker, Steve Higginbotham, Jay Lockhart, Willie Franklin, Jack Wilkie, and Steve Akin WHAT DO WE KNOW ABOUT HEAVEN?

People desperately want to believe in an afterlife. Even many atheists legedly been instructed to come back to earth and tell others about what struggle with the notion that this life is all there is. There is something they witnessed. But hasn’t the time of prophets ended? One must wonder, so wonderfully reassuring about the prospect of Heaven, that even at a if Jesus wanted man to know more about Heaven, why didn’t He reveal time when our society appears to be embracing all forms of immorality, it to us? Popular religious authors from Billy Graham to Rob Bell have jumped people still seek hope. into the discussion on Heaven—offering their thoughts about what it will Publishing companies are cashing in on books that promise Heaven— be like or teaching that everyone is going to Heaven. The interest in Heav- or better yet, try to give a firsthand description. A quick scan of religious en is palpable in our culture. titles over the last decade will reveal numerous books on the subject of But someone needs to ask the question: Are these publishers and near-death experiences—many of which have become best sellers. Two authors selling more than just books? Consider how many books have been years ago it was Heaven Is for Real: A Little Boy’s Astounding Story of published about someone who “didn’t make it to Heaven,” but rather His Trip to Heaven and Back by Todd Burpo. More recently, neurosurgeon ended up tasting hell briefly, before coming back to earth. Simply put, hell Eben Alexander has hit the best-seller shelf with Proof of Heaven. Back doesn’t sell. If one were to blindly accept what most of these books are in 2004, there was a book titled 90 Minutes in Heaven that featured a Bap- selling, then everyone is going to make it to Heaven (e.g., Eben Alexander described himself as “a Christmas and Easter only Christian who attend- ed a denomination but held to a naturalistic worldview.”) If one were to believe what these best-sellers are promoting, then everyone is going Heaven is to Heaven. In addition, many of the people who recount their near death experiences describe God and Heaven in a way that harmonizes with much of something we the New Age religion. The religion they describe is one of love and emo- tion—not spirit and truth. should all Consider for a moment what we do know. We know several people in the Bible who tasted death and came back: Lazarus (John 11), the widow’s son at Nain (Luke 7:11-16), Eutychus after falling out of the window (Acts look forward to 20:9), and the daughter of Jairus (Mark 5:21-43). The Apostle Paul wrote, “And I know such a man—whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows—how he was caught up into Paradise and heard inex- and crave. pressible words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter” (2 Corinthians 12:3-4). But the Bible does not record these individuals giving vast descriptions tist preacher who was involved in a life-threatening car wreck and was of their experiences. declared dead at the scene. Three years ago there was another popular This month we want to look at what we do know about Heaven. book The Boy Who Came Back from Heaven, that featured a six year-old Heaven is something we should all look forward to and crave. We also want boy who went into coma and two months later told his parents that he had to warn our readers of placing false hope in the descriptions given by been to Heaven and talked with Jesus. And this is just the tip of the ice- people recounting near-death experiences. Instead, we encourage all berg. But what are these publishers really selling? people—Christians and non-Christians to place their hope in Jesus Some individuals who describe near death experiences have described Christ, the true Author of eternal salvation. As always, we hope you will moving toward a light or being told it was not their time. Others have al- Think on these things. ▲

BRAD HARRUB KEITH PARKER STEVE HIGGINBOTHAM JAY LOCKHART WILLIE FRANKLIN JACK WILKIE STEVE AKIN

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FOCUS PRESS Because Our World Needs Some Light Focus Press is a non-profit work dedicated to teaching God’s Truths. Please consider donating today. No gift is too small.

You can donate online at http://www.focuspress.org/Donations.html or you can mail your support to: 1600 Westgate Circle, Ste. 125 Brentwood, TN 37027 Help us brighten up the world. Think February 2013-Interior_Interior 1/17/13 2:03 PM Page 6

MAILBAG

Charles and Anne W. Just when we thought Think couldn’t get any better … you all added weeThink. Such a creative Volume 8, Issue 2 • February 2013 idea. We shared it with our grandchildren. Thanks for giving us one more reason to love © Focus Press, Inc. 2013 Think magazine. published monthly by Focus Press, Inc. Executive Editor Lisa B. Brad Harrub, Ph.D. The Lord blessed us with a great corn crop even though we had very little rain and record high Editors temps. We are thankful for all the blessings and wanted to share. Hope things are going well there. Keith Parker Steve Higginbotham Michael C. Jay Lockhart Our family loves weeThink. My kids were so excited to see it! We are planning on using the Willie Franklin devotional in our home study. Thanks for what you do. Associate Editor Jack Wilkie Jimmy D. Student Editor We appreciate the work you are doing. We had some end of the year funds and felt your work Steve Akin was very worthy of a one time contribution from these funds. Keep up the good work. Advisory Council Tom Holland Linda W. Gene West Brad's seminar on God’s Plan for Marriage at Martin was excellent and his delivery was exemplary. Office Manager/Controller Your YouTube response to Bill Nye's recent comment was powerful. I pray for your work. Saundra Thornton Production Manager/Director of IT Doreen T. Michael Thornton I have been given just a few more months to live and I wanted to write. If God permits, I hope Director of Marriage and Parenting my loved ones will continue supporting your work … I love your magazine. I will continue as long Steven D. Minor as I can. Editorial Assistants Tonja McRady, Julie Forthun Ann B. Creative Director God bless you and all of the Focus Press team. Terry and I believe so many souls will be reached Nick Long through your work. ▲ Annual Subscription Rate: $30 individual or gift $27 group rate—5 or more to multiple addresses $24 bulk rate—5 or more to one address $45 Overseas & Canada Airmail FROM THE ROAD Articles in Think magazine may be copied and distributed for Bible study and other small group use, provided that any and all material is used exactly as it appears in the publication (i.e., no changes and/or edits). Additionally, por- Evangelism has been occurring worldwide since the Apostles tions of articles may be used in church bulletins/publications provided that complete sentences and/or paragraphs are used and titled with the same title walked the earth. But as I travel across the country I’ve noticed used in the magazine, and no changes or edits are made. In all instances, copyright credit must be given to Think magazine: Focus Press, Inc. Brent- that while almost all congregations see the need and value of it, wood, TN with month and year of publication included. Focus Press, Inc. few are willing to roll up their sleeves and actually do it. Our mod- 1600 Westgate Circle, Suite 125 Brentwood, TN 37027 ern-day approach is to build a nice building and offer a few cool (615) 324-5870 • (866) 313-6474 focuspress.org • email: [email protected] community oriented programs—and maybe VBS in the summer- Focus Press is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. time. But that is basically it. Very few congregations are encour- Member of: aging members to do one-on-one evangelism in people’s homes. Sim- ply put, we are looking for the easy way out—but the easy way out does not appear to be working. Let me encourage you to write Photos: © ThinkStock down the names of just 3 people you would like to see come to a knowledge of the Truth. Begin praying for them—and then take steps to reach out to them. Contact them, befriend them, and see if they would be willing to study with you. You just might be surprised at their response. Maybe if we spent more time consider- ing what Christ did for us, and the torment of Hell, and the condition of our friends and neighbors, and less time on “programs” we could start worrying about where we stored those folding chairs Stay informed. Join Focus Press from years ago. ▲ in our Facebook group and YouTube.

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Lori Boyd SOLID GROUND OPEN DOORS I love Paul’s letters. I learn something new every time I read one. I find it amazing that words written by a man hundreds of years ago to strug- gling churches can still teach and encourage a thirty-eight-year-old mother of three sitting at a kitchen table in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. I am so thankful God gave us the Bible. Before you delve into Colossians, keep in mind that Paul is in prison at the time he wrote this letter. That way––as he speaks about prayer, re- joicing in suffering, setting your mind on things above, forgiveness—you may gain greater appreciation for his perspective. It carries more power when a man in chains calls on you to let the peace of God rule in your heart and to be thankful. What an incredible example! On this occasion of study, God, through Paul, taught me something about opportunity. I read Colossians 4:2-4, which says, “Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving, meanwhile praying also for us, that God would open to us a door for the Word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in chains, that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.” I find that I pray frequently that God will help me to be a better Christian, wife, and mother; that He will help me to be a good example to people around me; and that He will help me to make good choic- es. I recognize the importance of asking for His help in all that I do, but I discovered something else important in Paul’s statement to his brothers and sisters in Colossae. He asked them to pray that God “would open a door.” He prayed for opportunity! His request was that God provide them with a situation where they might be able to speak to others about Christ. I can’t remember ever specifically asking God to present me with an opportunity to tell someone about Jesus … but I will now, thanks to Paul’s nearly 2000-year-old letter! I believe asking for “open doors” in our personal prayers could be life changing. My only caution is, with the knowledge that “whatsoever you ask for in prayer, believing you might receive,” I need to be ready to enter those doors when they begin to open! ▲

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HEART OF THE MATTER Brad Harrub, Ph.D.

LONGSUFFERINGHaving looked into the tearful eyes of parents whose children have One of the costs of living in a technologically advanced world is the constant urgency we place on everything. Regular “snail mail” shipping is no abandoned the Faith, I have learned there are a million miles between our longer good enough—we order something online and we want it instantly (or at least within 48 hours)! Our society has become impatient as we hus- children “going through the motions” in reference to their spiritual lives tle and bustle about in our daily walks. But all of this rushing about and technological advances have result- versus our children possessing hearts that dictate their actions. In this ed, in many cases, in weakened personal relationships. Simply put we don’t have time for people anymore—and when we do interact, often, it is in a column, I plan to share with you what I hope to instill in the hearts of my negative fashion. We are quick to get angry and in many cases self-restraint has been thrown to the wind. People are quick to point out the negative own children and those whom I love. in others or unleash anger on someone who didn’t live up to expectations. Sadly, our country seems content to rear a generation of self-absorbed in- dividualists rather than to heal a broken nation. In a day in which a Facebook post can instantly dissolve friendships, and intolerance of Biblical convictions seems to be the rule rather than the exception, the world is in desperate need of longsuffering. It is a word that is not used often, but is frequently mentioned in the Bible. It is one of those words we hear occasionally, but don’t hear too many lessons on. Here is what I intend to teach my children about longsuffering. Part of our goal in life is to become less like the world and more and more like God as we draw closer to Him. One of the characteristics of God found in both the Old Testament and New Testament is longsuffering (e.g., Exodus 34:6; Number 14:18; Psalm 86:15; Romans 2:4; 9:22; 2 Corinthians 6:6; Colossians 1:11; 1 Peter 3:20; 2 Peter 3:15). When you were young, you memorized the “fruits of the Spirit,” and it is no mistake that long-suffering is included in that list (Galatians 5:22-23). But what does this word really mean? The actual Greek word is makrothumia. Makro is commonly translated “long” and thumos is translated “temper.” It is literally the opposite of short-tempered. This quality defines someone who is not quick to anger and uses self-restraint. The apostle Paul instructed the Christians at Colos- sae, “Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mer- Love,Dad cies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering;” (Colossians 3:12). He also mentioned this quality to the Christians at Ephesus, “with all lowli- ness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love,” Ephesians 4:2. In fact, this trait is so important that Paul informed young Timothy that Jesus Christ had shown a pattern of longsuffering for us to follow (1 Timothy 1:16). Longsuffering is a character trait that must be developed—and should not be dependent on how someone else treats you. Consider God’s longsuffering of mankind. It requires persistence and a desire to be more pleasing to God. This is one of those traits that your dad still has to work on, even as an adult—but I can tell you it does get easier with time. There will be many occasions in your life where disagreements come up. How you deal with those disagreements is a reflection of you and tells a person how well you practice this godly trait of longsuffering. 1 Corinthians 13 reminds us that longsuffering is “love” on trial. While get- ting angry and shouting may make your point, it also says a lot about you as a person—and whether you are cultivating the fruits of the Spirit. Are you thinking more about self, or treating others as you would have them treat you (Matthew 7:12)? It won’t take you long in life to realize there are many people who you will disagree with over various subjects. How do you think God would have you react in these situations? Before you respond in haste, remind yourself how you would feel if every time you made a mistake God quickly re- buked you. Practice longsuffering and you will quickly discover that the ability to demonstrate self-restraint will be beneficial in all walks of life—work, church, and family. At the end of the day, remember it’s not about rushing here and there and having things your way—but rather it’s about the souls of men. ▲

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Steven D. Minor FAMILIES OF FAITH

IN OUR 10 PrioritiesHOME PA RT 1 My wife and I met a sister in Christ at a congregation I was speaking suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may who stopped me out in the church parking lot to talk. She told me she is gain Christ” (Philippians 3:8). May we not be saddle-sore from riding a grandmother of four beautiful grandchildren. She explained that she de- the fence! cided to quit her career as a pharmacist recently. I asked “Why?” She pro- ceeded to explain to us that she wanted to create a vast amount of time 3.To have an answer for the hope within them. Our children need to have to invest in the spiritual lives of her grandchildren all because “I want to solid, Biblical answers for life’s big questions! Peter wrote, “But in make sure they go to Heaven!” This grandmother made a courageous and your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to purposeful change in her life to set God-honoring priorities up to impact make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that the souls closest to her. What if all Christian parents and grandparents made is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). The those kinds of changes? The kingdom of God would explode with soul-win- following questions need to have answered before leaving home: ning zeal and unstoppable growth! • Why am I here? It’s time we evaluate and raise the standards of priorities in our homes • How did I get here? and be deliberate about passing on a godly legacy to future generations. • What must I do to be saved? But it all starts with the generation that is taking up occupancy in our homes • Did we evolve from ape-like creatures? today! The psalmist wrote, • Is Jesus the only path to salvation? We will not hide them from their children, telling to the generation to • Is the earth millions of thousands or years old? come the praises of the Lord, And His strength and His wonderful works • Who is God and how do I know He exists? that He has done. For He established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed • What about human suffering? a law in Israel, which He commanded our fathers, that they should make them known to their children; That the generation to come might know 4. To be willing to stand alone. The idea is, what everyone else is do- them, the children who would be born, that they may arise and declare ing, I will probably be choosing a different path. We want our chil- them to their children, that they may set their hope in God, and not for- dren and grandchildren to be willing to serve God with conviction like get the works of God, but keep His commandments (Psalm 78:4-7). Daniel, Joseph, David, the Apostles, and our Lord! Jesus stood alone many times during His ministry when all His followers left Him and Setting the right priorities today means blessing the generations to come! fled (Matthew 26:56), while He was on trial before Pilate, and es- The following are priorities that are significant to my wife and me when pecially on the cross! Yet, His Heavenly Father provided Him with it comes to impacting our children for Christ. In our home we fervently de- strength to go through it! I am reminded of a 16-year-old young man sire our children: named Joel Northrup who, due to his convictions, bowed out of an 1. To know, love and respect the Word of God. We know our children Iowa state wrestling match in February of 2011 because he was will probably not uphold God’s Holy Word higher than what their dad matched up with a female. Joel’s family convictions taught him not and mom do. So we must articulate how much we love and respect to touch a girl in that manner. Joel’s mother stated the following, “Its the God’s Word. Do they hear us revere God’s Word like David does go-along, get-along versus principled decisions,” Jamie Northrup said. in the Psalms? Very few parents I know would tell their kids to just go along and get • “In the way of your testimonies I delight as much as in all rich- along with everything. But the spirit of the age says do whatever the es. I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways” popular current is. Whereas a principled approach, doing what the (Psalm 119:14-15). core foundations of what someone believes, is not necessarily a pop- • “For I find my delight in your commandments, which I love” (Psalm ular thing to do right now. 119:47). 5. To wisely know that there are times when it’s okay to quit. My ob- • “Oh how I love your law. It is my meditation all the day” (Psalm servations have been that many of us Christian parents encourage 119:97). our children to take up athletics, band, drama, academic clubs, Tae • “Therefore I love your commandments above gold, above fine gold” Kwon Do, gymnastics or something else of interest (most of which (Psalm 119:127). are neutral activities). Depending on the circumstances it sometimes 2.To be genuinely dedicated Christians. It’s not near enough to be church- gets too demanding and starts taking a physical toll on the individ- goers, pew sitters, and name-only Christians! It’s training them to ual or the family. Many times we seem to overlook the spiritual toll be more dedicated to the Lord’s church than to the school band or that is taking place (e.g. too tired to make it for Bible class, missing the student council. More dedicated to Christ’s commands than to great church activities, missing family play and worship time, etc.). education. More dedicated to loving the lost than to loving sports. And for the sake of a flawed principle, which is, “We don’t want them More dedicated to sharing our faith than to sharing menial thoughts to be a quitter!” we continue on at the cost of their spiritual health. on a social website. More dedicated to the cross than to making a The Bible says, “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole name in this world. More dedicated to serving others than to mak- world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange ing a good salary. More dedicated to respectful manners than to mak- for his soul?” (Matthew 16:26). “And whatever you do, in word or deed, ing all As on the report card. Paul expressed this thought of dedica- do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the tion when he said, “Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the ex- Father through Him” (Colossians 3:17). If God is not coming first in ▲ cellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have our families—it’s not just okay to quit, He expects us to quit!

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There are many good arguments for God’s existence that make the Christian faith both over- whelmingly plausible and intellectually credible. But one such argument that is hardly discussed in modern apologetic circles is often referred to as the Argument from Desire. While C. S. Lewis is the most well-known proponent of this argument, others before and after him have suggested it. It happens to be an argument that I find most intriguing given the practical dynamics THE APOLOGETICS OF DESIRE: of faith and human nature. Here is one way to formulate the Argument HOW HUMANITY’S UNIVERSAL from Desire:

LONGING FOR GOD SUGGESTS Premise #1: All natural and universal desires HIS EXISTENCE have objects that exist which satisfy that desire.

Premise #2: Humanity’s desire for God is a JOE PUCKETT, JR. natural and universal desire.

Conclusion: Therefore, God must exist as an object (subject?) that satisfies that desire.

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Notice that the argument is valid. That is to versal spirit.” They found that only 2 percent of his heart there is no God because the fool would say, if the first two premises are true, then the their research group considered themselves prefer it so (Psalm 14:1). He has convinced him- conclusion must necessarily be true also. So if the atheists.1 This study is consistent with what is self that there is no God because God is one of conclusion is wrong, the critic of the argument found world-wide. For example, the philosopher the most inconvenient truths for a life committed must deny either the first or second premise. Kai-Man Kwon made the observation that to its own ways. It is obvious to all that if the Critics of the above argument have often “Religious believers are still the overwhelming Christian God exists, we must stand before Him sought to deny the first premise by saying that just majority of the world’s population (84 percent), in judgment. But to stand before Him in judgment because we desire something to be true does not while nonreligious people are the minority (16 per- would mean that the unbeliever would have to make it so. For example, I could wish that unicorns cent).”2 Clearly the human tendency to believe in change his life to suit God’s wishes rather than exist but this does not mean unicorns do, in the divine is a universal and natural one. his own. If I am more committed to living my own reality, exist. But this objection fails to understand Second, we could say that the person way, then I will more gladly set aside my other- what the first premise actually says. The first prem- who denies having any divine desire wise natural inclination to believe in God. This type ise does not suggest that every object we wish really does desire God naturally but has of unbeliever is no different than a person whose to exist must exist. There are two fundamental misplaced the object of that desire onto body knows it needs food for nourishment but has types of desires humans have. Let’s call them something else. The writer of Ecclesiastes did set aside that desire for some other self-motivated natural desires and particular desires. this. He sought to find the true object of his long- reason. There are eating disorders that bring one Particular desires are desires that only certain ing through all sorts of things in this world and to a place where they no longer desire food. In people have. They are not desires that spring from always came up empty handed (Ecclesiastes 1:1- fact, they often come to hate food. Whenever they human nature. Examples of these kinds of desires 14). He tried to find satisfaction for his ultimate eat, they often cause themselves to vomit it out. are such things as wanting to drive a Mercedes life’s desire in manmade philosophy (1:17-18), This is what many atheists have done with their or wanting to own a purple unicorn for a pet. Such alcohol (2:3), riches (2:7-8), women (2:8, 7:28), and natural inclination for God. That is to say, the fool desires do not mean that the objects of these in many other ways. But none of them satisfied has said there is no God in the same way that it desires exist. We often call these desires wish- what he was really after. His final conclusion was is the fool who has denied his own healthy ful thinking. that God was the only one who could fill the desire for food. It is natural empty (albeit natural) void in his heart (12:13). This Thus the conclusion of the argument is the is what the Argument from Desire basically same conclusion Solomon reached many years to adore the says. God must exist in order to fill the empty void ago. Fearing God and keeping His commandments Divine Creator, in the human heart—a void that humans deeply is man’s ultimate end (Ecclesiastes 12:13). And long to fill. our otherwise empty hearts are witnesses to this so we worship. Third, we could say that some have set truth. Thus while there are great formal arguments However, natural desires are desires such as aside their natural longing for God by will- in favor of God’s existence, human beings are still hunger, thirst, and social belonging. Human fully numbing their sense of divine presence naturally created to believe even without them. beings desire these things because they are in life. Seen in this way, natural desires are not It is simply instinctive and intuitive to look at natural to us. But the main point here is that these coercive. They can be neglected or ignored. the world around us and know that something kinds of desires insist that objects for their sat- Take, for example, a social hermit who has no or someone outside the universe made it isfaction must exist. If we are hungry, this implies desire to be loved by others. Sociologists and (Romans 1:20). the existence of food. If we are thirsty, this psychologists recognize that humans are social In other words, it is natural to be hungry, so implies the existence of something to drink. If we creatures by nature. We generally want to belong we eat. It is natural to thirst, so we drink. It is desire social belonging, this implies that other per- in this world and desire to have people love us. natural to adore the Divine Creator, so we wor- sons exist to socialize with. Thus if humanity has But some people have buried that desire away and ship. While not forced upon us, it is written in our a universal and natural hunger for God, then this have convinced themselves that they have no need spiritual DNA to have a tendency to believe. In this would also suggest that the most probable and for other people in their lives. But the existence way God gives man a natural advantage in favor expected conclusion is that God is the “Object” of social hermits does not deny that human of theism. This is expected in beings made in the that must exist to satisfy that natural desire. beings are naturally social creatures. One can push image of God (Genesis 1:26-27). ▲ Consequently, some have attacked the argu- aside their natural desires to the extent that they ment’s second premise, saying that our desire for sincerely believe they have never had them at all. For more on the Argument from Desire, see God is not a natural or universal desire at all. They That is to say, just because some people have his recent book The Apologetics of Joy: A Case will say something to the effect that they have deadened their natural desire for socialization to for the Existence of God from C.S. Lewis’s Argu- never felt a desire for God. Therefore the desire some degree does not negate that humans are still ment from Desire (Eugene, OR: Wipf & Stock Pub- for God must not be a natural one. Like Sigmund naturally social creatures. In the same way, lishing, 2012). Freud, they will suggest that our belief in God is the existence of atheists does not deny that mere artificial wishful thinking in a world trying human beings have a natural desire for God.

to find something to cure its childish fears. But The apostle Paul would say that we are without 1). Smith, Greg. “Pew Forum Survey on Religion in America.” Wash- one can plausibly answer this objection in at least excuse to deny God’s existence in the face of such ington Post, June 23, 2008. four ways: a wonderful world that so strongly pulls at 2). Taliaferro, Charles. “In Defense of the Numinous.” In Philosophy First, it is simply wrong to suggest that be- our natural desire and intuition to believe (Romans and the Christian Worldview, edited by Mark Linville and David Werther. New York: Continuum, 2012, p. 514. lief in God or some such divine being(s) is 1:20). not natural. The Pew Forum on Religion and A fourth way someone can learn to ignore Social Life has done a survey that found that 92 his natural desire to believe is by pride percent of Americans believe in God or some “uni- and/or the desire to sin. The fool has said in

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ELI’S STORY KRISTIE WILLIAMS aron met me at the entrance where I was waiting in my car parked beside one of the stone pillars that welcomed visitors. The steady rain was no deterrent to him as he quickly exit- Aed the municipal pickup he was driving to come to my window. Though he did not smile, he had a pleasant look on his face and approached me with his eyebrows raised ready and willing to do as I needed. I rolled the window down and said, “I’m just so sorry that you had to meet me to do this on a day like today, if I could do it without your help, or on any other day I gladly would.” He smiled and two gold teeth right in the front sparkled as he said, “No, ma’am, I’m glad to do it and would do it any time.” And, I didn’t doubt him, but a part of me wanted him to say, “Nope, sorry, ma’am, we can’t do this when it’s raining. It messes up the landscaping.” But, he didn’t, and his eyebrows rose as his smile leveled out waiting for me to speak again. I was hoping he would take the lead, but I said, “Ok, I guess, I will just drive around until I see a spot and point it out to you somehow, right?” Tiny raindrops rolled off the bill of his hat as he gave a looping nod and said, “That’ll work.” This seemed so inefficient and time consuming; in other words painful, even without the sting- ing ambiance of gloomy rain. So, I rolled up the window and began creeping the car along the paved grid of Roselawn Cemetery. Three of our kids and I had briefly come home to Athens, Alabama, from

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Memphis, Tennessee, where Eli, our third child and existing on earth must have my hand and heart it around and around in his hands to get his bear- oldest son, was being treated at St. Jude Chil- in it. I was troubled by this peek into a possible ings, then called Whitney. Nope, that’s sold. We dren’s Research Hospital for metastatic medul- future, but was grateful for the unintentional fore- went a little further and did it again. Nope, that’s loblastoma—brain cancer. At seven years old, just warning. It made common sense that we should sold. Turned down another pathway and did it four days after a Christmas where he felt too sick prepare for such an event that required attention again. Nope, that’s sold. to see what Santa brought him, he was diagnosed and planning while I was emotionally stable. Ready and willing to give up, I drove down the and whisked away that same day to LeBonheur So, with an aching dread in my heart, I secured back drive. I got out and stood at an open area on Children’s Hospital in Memphis for resection of a babysitter and made an appointment with a fu- a slope between the city road and the cemetery the originating tumor. We would learn that he had neral director. I had only been to Limestone Chapel drive. I just shrugged my shoulders at him. He more than half-a-dozen tumors on his brain as well one other time for a visitation. I trotted up to the turned the map around and around while he talked as up and down his spine. His spinal fluid was in- door trying to lessen the effects of the rain on my to Whitney and then gave me a thumbs-up; finally. fected and during surgery the doctor discovered hair, and it gave a soft chime as I entered. A man I didn’t know what to ask about the plots. The area a “sugar-coating” of disease that had seeped into greeted me and alerted Mr. Blythe to my arrival. was kind of to itself, not lost in the middle of the his gray matter. The next 10 months, as a patient I only had time for one cleansing sigh before Mr. hundreds of other tombstones and there were of St. Jude, he would endure multiple surgeries, Blythe came out of his office. Now that I was in some big trees nearby. Did it matter? Not really, high-dose radiation to his brain and spine, and the building, I felt confident in our decision to do but I needed something besides “it wasn't sold” high-dose chemotherapy––all the while on which to base a decision. So, I stood fighting the peripheral effects of the tox- in the middle of the open area and ic treatment, such as the destruction of WHAT IS THE Aaron walked the perimeter to show his immune system leaving him vul- me exactly where the boundaries nerable to death by common cold. It was were. He talked about drainage and the now summer and Eli was in the middle HOPE IF IT landscaping that had been planted of his chemotherapy cycles. His immune along the road. So, I said, “Ok, well, system had bottomed out as expected, hold block 189 for us,” and then I told so my husband, Vic, stayed with him dur- IS NOT him that I would pay Whitney after I ing quarantine because he could work had discussed it with Vic but that he remotely for his job, and he is much bet- HEAVEN? was in Memphis with Eli. I gave him an ter suited for eight straight, isolated Eli bracelet with a quick explanation hours of video-gaming for days in a row than I am. this and I was ready to get down to business. and a thank you for helping me, especially in the Eli was doing well. Having completed radiation He led me to a plain white door that looked like rain. He said, “Thank you,” then stood kind of mo- and two of the four chemo courses at this time, a closet door, but when he opened it and I stepped tionless for a second looking at the bracelet. He he was really having some good days. inside, my breath left me. Behind the subtle door, shook his head and looked up and said he was sor- A week or so prior to our brief trip home, I was the room opened like a chasm and I suddenly felt ry to hear about Eli. Then he held that bracelet in reading the blog of a mother whose daughter fights very small and lost. Despite the airiness, the room his hand and kind of pointed it at me and said, “I’m the same brain cancer as Eli. The little girl had was heavy and I began to smother under its gonna hold this block for ya for as long as you want been hand-in-hand with death waiting for the door weight, feeling my hands become clammy and my me to. But you ain’t gonna have to use one no time to open when she made an extraordinary turn- mouth dry. Mr. Blythe stepped in from behind me soon, so don’t you worry about it.” He put his head around almost literally from one day to the next. and gently gestured toward a chair that sat at a down again and frowned as he slipped the I’m paraphrasing, but she wrote that one day she small conference table immediately upon enter- bracelet on and said under his breath, “No was picking out the white dress in which her ing. I shook off the initial shock of seeing the cas- ma’am, no time soon.” Then he hesitantly gave daughter would be buried and the next day she ket-lined walls, small models of vaults, and me a little half hug because he was moved to do was doing something like basically planning a va- rows of urns, and took the seat that was offered. so and just couldn’t help it. cation. My heart hung on the white dress. This Mr. Blythe spoke softly as he patiently schooled I, genuinely and honestly, do not see how any- wearied mother, during what was thought to be me on caskets, cemeteries, and funeral services. one can face a tragedy or hardship without hav- the last precious moments with her child on earth, When we were done, he gave me a Limestone ing understood that earth is a pilgrimage. Sitting had chores. I became terrified. Envisioning now Chapel umbrella and led me in his car to the around the hospital at St. Jude and watching chil- what those moments were for her led me to Athens Cemetery Department where I met Whit- dren scurry around on forearm crutches, or par- thoughts of what it would be like for me. ney. She had a map of the cemetery in the office, ents pull red wagons with little bald heads My weakness during Eli’s fight so far has been and said she would ask Aaron, who also had a map peeking out from under a blanket, I wonder how manageable; but if this were me, my heart and in the field, to meet me at the entrance to one even has hope if this life is it. What is the hope soul would be crushed, rending me devoid of emo- Roselawn. So, with that plan, I thanked Mr. Blythe, if it is not Heaven? Because of our acceptance that tional, mental, and physical strength. How was and headed to the cemetery. After meeting this “world is not my home,” and the fact that Eli she able to do this? How was she able to plan her Aaron at the entrance, I drove around slowly to- is not to the age of understanding sin, we are in child’s funeral during those last intensely focused ward an open area and stopped. The rain made a win-win situation. Eli either lives and is a tes- moments at her bedside? I would have no cognitive the procedure even more awkward than it already tament to God’s power, or he is rewarded with a strength. I would not be able to focus on anything was, but I took the umbrella I was given and got home in Heaven as God has promised. Evil has al- but watching his chest rise and fall with each out. I just motioned toward the big empty area. ready lost. ▲ breath wondering if that one was the last. Nei- He got out with a big laminated map in hand that ther would I want someone to plan my son’s fu- had turned yellow and soft from being rolled and Follow Eli’s journey at neral for me. The last public recognition of his soul unrolled for many years. He held it up and turned www.stansgotafrog.com.

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BOOK ANALYSIS Brad Harrub, Ph.D. PROOF OF HEAVEN BETTER FROM GOD THAN FROM A NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCE

It is not everyday you hear about a neurosur- that bypassed language, and how he was able to perceive more love than ever. Could this be true— geon claiming a belief in God. Most are too busy a neurosurgeon who has seen Heaven? viewing themselves in that particular role. Dr. Eben It didn’t take long for my doubt to rear its ugly head. Early in the book, Alexander admitted he Alexander not only claimed to believe in God, but “went to our Episcopal church with Holley and the kids on occasion. But the fact was that for years he also claimed to have met Him in a near death I’d only been a step above a ‘C & E’er’ (one who only darkens the door of a church at Christmas and experience. Here was a neurosurgeon claiming to Easter).” Alexander goes on in the next few pages to admit that he had come to embrace natura- have spent time in Heaven! Much of my scientific listic/evolutionary science. Someone needs to ask the question as to why a person who is not a New training was in the field of neurobiology and God Testament Christian, who belonged to the church Christ founded, and believed in naturalism was was simply something most of my professors did given approval by God? And not only that, why was religion not a major part of the book or his in- not believe in or talk about openly. Given Alexan- terviews after he “came back”? Throughout this book the story is about Alexander and his amaz- der’s educational background and the claims he ing perception of this incredible place—but very little about God. makes, I knew I needed to read his book and do The point at which I believe Alexander lost some credibility was in the original first message some of my own research. he was allegedly told by the beautiful girl who helped guide him around Heaven. He said it had I will admit up front that I am highly skeptical three parts: any time I hear about near-death experiences. How 1. “You are loved and cherished, dearly, forever.” many of these claims are done for monetary gain? 2. “You have nothing to fear.” How can anyone dispute their claims? According 3. “There is nothing you can do wrong.” to the Bible, more people are on the broad way Nothing you can do wrong? The Bible says clearly that there were angels who sinned (2 Peter that leads to destruction (Matthew 7:13), and yet 2:4; see also Jude 6). Eben Alexander is latching on to three powerful emotional characteristics that we don’t hear much about near-death experiences mankind is desperate to hear: you are loved, you don’t need to fear, and you can do whatever you in which people find them- want. How many people will cling to this man’s testimony as hope—hope selves in Hell. I am a firm thatth should be received from God’s Word. believer that the Bible pro- Space does not allow a full review of every good point or bad point. While vides man all we need to I foundf his description of consciousness outside the body intriguing, I wres- know regarding God and tledtle with the lack of religion in a book that is suppose to reveal things about Heaven. To look beyond Heaven.H One of the things I did like about the book is Alexander very early the Bible is to cast your onon references “Appendix B—Neuroscientific Hypotheses I Considered to Ex- hope in man. From a neu- plainpl My Experience.” In other words, Eben acknowledged that men trained rological perspective, is likelik myself would come along and give an explanation like: “Well, maybe it the “light” that many claim wasw …” Dr. Alexander gives nine areas that he considered—most of which to see simply the brain fir- I wouldw agree with. However, his answers in a couple of areas were extremely ing wildly trying to stay lacking—likela the robustness and interactive nature of his recollections could alive? Yes, I am skepti- notno be explained away by brainstem damage—because he claims it was too cal—but this time it was a robust.ro neurosurgeon who claimed For instance, he wrote that while he was in a coma, his “brain was work- to experience Heaven. ingin improperly—it wasn’t working at all” (p. 9). But this neurosurgeon did not I read Eben Alexander’s givegi evidence—no brain scans—nothing except, “Trust me, I’m a doctor.” He Proof of Heaven almost goesgo on to say, “But in my case, the neocortex was out of the picture. I was overnight. Here is a guy encounteringen the reality of a world of consciousness that existed complete- who made the cover of lyly free of the limitations of my physical brain” (p. 9, italics in orig.). So his Newsweek (October 2012), claimcl that his neocortex was dead is the basis of why his was a near-death and made the rounds on experienceex and not just some weird physiological malfunction or fast firing many of the talk show/late ofof the brain. But dead means dead—and this is a guy who seven days night shows to talk about laterla woke up and started talking. How could his neocortex be totally experiencing Heaven. And nnowo hhee hhasas writtenritten a ddeadead forfor ssevene en daysda s andand then start working perfectly? When questioned about this by neuroscien- book. The book is an easy read that is written at tist Mark Cohen, Dr. Alexander said, “Well, the thing is I would not say completely inactive” a popular level without a lot of scientific jargon. (http://www.salon.com/2012/11/26/dr_eben_alexanders_so_called_after_life/). The basic premise is Dr. Alexander became un- So which was it—not working at all or not completely inactive? Because if there was brain ac- conscious from a deadly case of E. coli bacteri- tivity around, then one must wonder how they played into what he experienced. We’ve all experi- al meningitis that was infecting his brain. He was enced weird and maybe very colorful dreams. Was this merely a dreamlike state he was in during unconscious for seven days, and during that time his recovery? Is it possible these were false memories or confabulations? While it is exciting to read he visited “a place of clouds” (p. 45). He spends about a scientist who formerly embraced naturalism come over to accepting the reality that there much of the book describing the beauty of this is a God, to me it is very dangerous for millions to put their hope in this man and discount what the place, the beings that he met (e.g., Orb, Om), how Bible clearly teaches. If you are really looking for proof of Heaven why not read about it from the he was able to communicate instantly in a way Almighty Who created it?!▲

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Order online at www.focuspress.org or call 866-313-6474 Think February 2013-Interior_Interior 1/17/13 2:04 PM Page 16

INTO THE LIGHT TREVOR MAJOR

Journalist William Cash relates the fascinating

story of one Freddie Ayer.1 In May of 1988, at the age

of 77, Ayer came down with a serious case of pneu-

monia. He was admitted to hospital, however, a few

days later, his heart stopped beating. A nurse was

able to revive him, and apparently, the patient suf-

fered no ill effects. Three months later, Ayer wrote

an article about his experience titled “What I Saw

When I Was Dead.” He reports seeing a bright light

and becoming aware that this light “was responsi-

ble for the government of the universe.”

16 FEBRUARY 2013 | THINK Think February 2013-Interior_Interior 1/22/13 6:31 AM Page 17

Here is the kicker: Freddie Ayer is better known personal insights, or express some grand one match up between, say, the physical state of in all his books and technical writings as A.J. “truths” about the universe. Again, these an oxygen-starved brain, and the mental state of Ayer—one of the preeminent atheist philosophers revelations are typically consistent with the a patient who thinks he saw Peter at the Pearly of the twentieth century. This was the same guy subject’s worldview. Gates. Human consciousness constantly defies ex- who, in an early phase of his professional career, planation in completely physical terms. 5. An instantaneous, panoramic review of dismissed as nonsense any sentence using the Second, NDEs throw a wrench in the as- their lives. word “God.” sumptions of the euthanasia movement. NDEs are Ayer confessed that the experience “slightly 6. An option to stay in the light, or return to remarkable because they seem to take place when weakened” his conviction that death will be the their earthly bodies. Some encounter a bar- there is no measurable brain activity (as shown end of him, but it had not weakened his convic- rier, and realize that they have no choice but by a flat EEG).5 The pro-death people would love tion that there is no God. This is not what he told to return. This final phase is often accom- us to step back at this point and say, “That’s it. Dr. Jeremy George, the attending physician, panied by the impression that this is not their Game over. Pull the plug.” But clearly, a lot is hap- shortly after his recovery from cardiac arrest. By time to die, and that they have important, pening in the first few minutes of clinical death. Dr. George’s account, Ayer said the following: unfinished business back on earth. And third, to end on a somewhat negative note, “I saw a Divine Being. I’m afraid I’m going to have NDEs are not a compelling argument for Heaven’s to revise all my various books and opinions.” This Is Your Brain on Death existence. Arguments from religious experience None of those revisions took place, and the are highly subjective. Someone can tell me that Near-death stories are often used to back up later essay is taken to be Ayer’s official position. she died, went through a tunnel, saw God, and the claim that we have a soul that survives the Privately, there were changes. According to his felt an overwhelming sense of love and accept- physical death of the body and goes on to have wife, Freddie “became so much nicer after he ance. She can tell me that this experience a conscious existence in the afterlife. Naturally, died,” and he spent a lot of time with philosopher changed her life for the better. I can hear all of skeptics see this as something that has to be and Jesuit priest, Frederick Copleston. that, and I can rejoice with her, but I cannot build explained away. Ayer’s near-death experience (NDE) is not my faith on her experience. If she claims to have Susan Blackmore argues that a variety of unique. More than 13 million Americans claim to received extraordinary knowledge, such as meet- triggers, such as stress, fear, and lack of oxygen, have had an NDE episode, according to a Gallup ing relatives she (thought she) never knew existed, can bring about a near-death experience.3 These Poll in 1991. There is now an International As- I can hardly verify those claims for myself. sociation for Near-Death Studies and a Journal of Near-Death Studies. This is quite the cottage The objective evidence can be found in abundance. industry in academia, as well as in the Christian publishing world, with blockbuster titles such as The objective evidence to ground our faith can triggers can cause “the release of pleasure-in- Heaven Is for Real (2010), and The Boy Who Came be found in abundance elsewhere. Paul did not ducing endorphins, and can set off random neu- Back from Heaven (2010). shy away from offering his personal testimony to ral activity in various parts of the brain.” Similar Over the last few decades, psychologists, neu- Agrippa and Festus, but he never expected them activity has been observed in the brains of peo- roscientists, and other researchers have examined to take his word on it. The central event of the ple taking hallucinogenic drugs. hundreds of cases of NDEs and have found a dis- Christian faith, he reminded them, “has not Ironically, accounts that try to reduce mental tinctive cluster of features. Not everyone expe- been done in a corner” (Acts 26:26). NDEs hap- events to physical events lack the one thing that riences all these features in exactly this order, but pen in a fascinating corner of the human mind; but, skeptics value the most, namely, empirical evi- most NDEs share the following:2 for the majority of us, it will always be someone dence. If anything, empirical studies show that else’s corner. 1. A realization that the body is near to death NDEs cannot be described completely in terms of Further, NDEs are colored by a person’s or has died. This occurs, not only in the clas- brain chemistry. worldview. Ayer’s NDE included a conversation sic cases of cardiac arrest or drowning, but In the Netherlands, researchers followed the about the laws of nature, but this is hardly sur- also in cases where people are suffering progress of over 300 patients who were suc- prising: The atheist spent a lot of his career think- from chronic illnesses such as cancer or cys- cessfully resuscitated after cardiac arrest.4 Less ing about the philosophy of science. Some NDE tic fibrosis. than a fifth of the patients reported some sort of reports are simply inconsistent with Biblical the- NDE. Their experiences were not readily explained 2. An experience of moving out of the body, and ism. by medication or the length of time they were un- being able to see the body from above. Sub- In the end, we can acknowledge that NDEs conscious. jects often report hearing conversations have a profound effect on people’s lives. They can- If NDEs have a completely physical explana- among family and medical staff. not be ignored. At the same time, they cannot pro- tion, then we should expect similar experiences vide us with objective evidence of an afterlife, 3. An experience of moving beyond the earth- under similar conditions, but only a few of the Heaven, or the existence of God. ▲ ly “death” scene to a totally different Dutch survivors reported having an NDE. Even plane of existence. This is often where we 1 William Cash, “Did Atheist Philosopher See God When He ‘Died’?” more striking, survivors who had an NDE would National Post, April 28, 2009. http://variousenthusiasms.word- hear accounts of people moving through a often experience positive life changes. We do not press.com/2009/04/28/did-atheist-philosopher-see-god-when- dark tunnel, or being guided by loved ones see the same “after-death” effects in other sur- he-died-by-william-cash/ or spirit beings of some kind or another. vivors, or in people who have experienced drug- 2 Bruce J. Horacek, “Near-Death Experiences,” in Arri Eisen and Gary Laderman, editors, Science, Religion and Society (Armonk, 4. Seeing light at the end of the tunnel. This induced hallucinations. There is something pro- NY: M.E. Sharpe, 2007), p. 740-742. often radiates from an individual. People found and unique about NDEs that cannot be ex- 3 Susan Blackmore, Consciousness: A Very Short Introduction (Ox- with a Christian background will identify this plained away by physiology and chemistry. ford: Oxford University Press, 2005), p. 110-111. “being of light” with Jesus. Buddhists say 4 Pim van Lommel, et al., “Near-death Experience in Survivors of What Do We Learn? Cardiac Arrest: A Prospective Study in the Netherlands,” Lancet, they encounter Buddha. Hindus say they en- 2001, 358 (15 Dec.): 2039-2045. counter one of their gods or goddesses. First, NDEs throw a wrench in the assumptions 5 Ornella Corazza, Near-Death Experiences (New York: Routledge, These beings will often share some deep of reductive materialism. We fail to see a one-to- 2008), p. 37.

THINK | FEBRUARY 2013 17 Think February 2013-Interior_Interior 1/17/13 2:04 PM Page 18

TRUTHS 10WESLEY WALKER

ThereThere aarere ffewew tthingshings iinn llifeife tthathat eelicitlicit mmoreore sspeculationpeculation tthanhan tthehe aafterlife.fterlife. SSinceince aallll ppeopleeople ffaceace estest mmemory.emory. TThenhen iimaginemagine thatthat iitt iiss iimmeasurablymmeasurably death,death, iinterestnterest iinn wwhathat hhappensappens bbeyondeyond tthehe ggraverave iiss nneverever cceasing.easing. ThereThere areare a mmultitudeultitude ooff bbooks,ooks, better.better. TThenhen iimaginemagine thatthat tthehe mmomentoment nneverever eends.nds. articles,articles, aandnd ttelevisionelevision sspecialspecials thatthat hhaveave ttackledackled tthishis ssubject.ubject. CCuriosityuriosity aandnd sspeculationpeculation aarere nnotot ThisThis isis whatwhat HeavenHeaven iiss llike.ike. alwaysalways goodgood thingsthings however.however. TheyThey tendtend toto blurblur thethe lineline betweenbetween factfact andand fictionfiction andand leaveleave peoplepeople Fifth,Fifth, wwee kknownow thatthat wwee wwillill bebe withwith Jesus.Jesus. “We“We confusedconfused asas toto thethe ttruerue rrealityeality ooff HHeaven.eaven. willwill alwaysalways bebe withwith thethe Lord.”Lord.” TThathat iiss hhowow PPaulaul InIn thethe ffaceace ooff ssoo mmuchuch sspeculationpeculation yyouou mmightight wwonderonder wwhathat ssomeoneomeone ccanan kknownow aaboutbout tthehe GGreatreat describesdescribes ourour reunionreunion withwith JesusJesus onon thethe lastlast dayday BBeyond.eyond. TheThe truthtruth iiss oonlynly GGodod ccanan rrevealeveal ttoo uuss wwhathat hhappensappens wwhenhen wwee ddie.ie. AAlthoughlthough ttherehere hhaveave bbeeneen (1(1 ThessaloniansThessalonians 4:17).4:17). WhenWhen JesusJesus returnsreturns andand mmanyany booksbooks writtenwritten wwherehere ppeopleeople cclaimlaim ttoo ddie,ie, ggoo ttoo HHeaven,eaven, aandnd tthenhen ccomeome bbackack ttoo llifeife iinn oorderrder wewe meetmeet HimHim iinn tthehe aair,ir, oourur eeternityternity wwillill bbee sspentpent ttoo ttellell ttheirheir sstory,tory, tthehe ttruthruth iiss tthesehese aaccountsccounts aarere uunablenable ttoo pproviderovide uuss wwithith aanyny aaccurateccurate iinforma-nforma- withwith JJesus.esus. ““TheThe oonene wwhomhom wwee hhaveave nnotot sseen,een, ttionion oonn thethe futurefuture hhomeome ooff tthehe ssaints.aints. IInstead,nstead, wewe mustmust turnturn toto GGodod aandnd HisHis revelationrevelation toto learnlearn whatwhat yetyet wwee llove,ove, (1(1 PeterPeter 11:8)”:8)” wwillill becomebecome thethe oneone HHeaveneaven iiss llike.ike. SoSo allowallow meme toto shareshare wwithith yyouou ttenen ttruthsruths wwee kknownow aaboutbout HHeaven.eaven. whomwhom wwee willwill aalwayslways sseeee aandnd llove.ove. JJesusesus FFirst,irst, wwee kknownow tthathat HHeaveneaven iiss tthehe ddwellingwelling pplacelace ooff GGod.od. JJesusesus ooftenften ddescribedescribed hhisis FFatherather aass preparedprepared HHeaveneaven fforor uuss ((JohnJohn 114:2)4:2) aandnd wwee wwillill bbeingeing inin “Heaven”“Heaven” (Matthew(Matthew 5:45,5:45, 6:9;6:9; etet al.).al.). WhenWhen thethe ArkArk ofof thethe CovenantCovenant waswas broughtbrought toto thethe livelive inin thisthis preparedprepared placeplace withwith ourour perfectperfect ttemple,emple, SSolomonolomon prayedprayed andand declareddeclared thatthat GGod’sod’s ddwellingwelling pplacelace iiss HHeaveneaven ((11 KKingsings 8:30).8:30). WhenWhen thethe Savior.Savior. OurOur ffaithaith wwillill bbecomeecome sight.sight. rrighteousighteous eenternter HHeaveneaven ttheyhey aarere eenteringntering tthehe ddwellingwelling pplacelace (home)(home) ofof God.God. Sixth,Sixth, wwee kknownow wewe willwill bebe unitedunited withwith tthosehose SSecond,econd, wewe knowknow thatthat HHeaveneaven wwillill bbee a placeplace wherewhere righteousnessrighteousness rreigns.eigns. IInn 2 PPetereter 33,, PPetereter whowho havehave dieddied inin Christ.Christ. InIn thethe samesame sectionsection ofof describesdescribes thethe endend ofof thisthis age.age. HeHe discussesdiscusses thethe destructiondestruction ofof thisthis earthearth aandnd oourur aanticipationnticipation ooff tthehe 1 ThessaloniansThessalonians wherewhere PPaulaul ttellsells uuss wwee wwillill “new“new HeavensHeavens andand newnew earth”earth” ((3:12,3:12, 113).3). PeterPeter sstatestates tthathat iinn tthishis nnewew pplacelace ““righteousnessrighteousness ddwells.”wells.” alwaysalways bebe withwith thethe Lord,Lord, itit alsoalso declaresdeclares thatthat a EachEach dayday wewe livelive inin a worldworld withwith increasingincreasing unrighteousness.unrighteousness. SinSin seemsseems toto bebe onon thethe rriseise iinn oourur lland.and. greatgreat rreunioneunion wwillill ttakeake pplace.lace. ItIt sseemseems thethe Greed,Greed, ssexualexual immorality,immorality, violenceviolence andand otherother transgressionstransgressions areare notnot onlyonly committedcommitted butbut alsoalso glori-glori- ChristiansChristians iinn TThessalonicahessalonica werewere concernedconcerned aboutabout fied.fied. IItt ccanan bbee ssaidaid tthathat oourur wworldorld iiss a pplacelace wwherehere uunrighteousnessnrighteousness ddwells.wells. HHowever,owever, ttherehere iiss a nnewew theirtheir ffellowellow ddisciplesisciples whowho dieddied beforebefore thethe returnreturn realityreality tthathat aawaitswaits ffollowersollowers ooff CChristhrist iinn HHeaven.eaven. WWee wwillill eenjoynjoy aann aabodebode ofof righteousness.righteousness. ofof JJesus.esus. PaulPaul writeswrites ttoo eencouragencourage tthemhem aandnd ddoesoes Third,Third, wwee kknownow HeavenHeaven wwillill bebe anan incorruptible,incorruptible, uundefiled,ndefiled, aandnd uunfadingnfading pplace.lace. TThishis isis whatwhat wwee soso byby describingdescribing thethe hhappeningsappenings ofof thethe ffinalinal dday.ay. areare ttoldold iinn 1 PeterPeter 11:4.:4. PPeter,eter, eencouragingncouraging thethe ChristiansChristians ofof hhisis dayday toto staystay faithfulfaithful dduringuring a ttimeime ooff WeWe areare toldtold thatthat thethe deaddead inin ChristChrist willwill riserise toto meetmeet persecution,persecution, remindedreminded themthem ofof thethe ppristineristine nnatureature ooff ttheirheir ffutureuture hhome.ome. WWee aarere uusedsed ttoo tthingshings tthathat thethe LLordord aandnd tthenhen tthosehose wwhoho areare aalivelive atat thethe rre-e- wearwear oout,ut, rrustust oout,ut, aandnd ffadeade oout.ut. IInn HHeaveneaven nnoneone ooff tthesehese wwillill hhappen.appen. HHeaveneaven wwillill bbee aass ggloriouslorious turnturn ooff JJesusesus wwillill joinjoin them.them. A grandgrand reunionreunion wouldwould thethe ffirstirst mmomentoment wwee aarere ttherehere aass iitt wwillill bbee 110,0000,000 yyearsears llater.ater. taketake pplacelace betweenbetween thethe ddeadead iinn ChristChrist aandnd tthehe Fourth,Fourth, wwee kknownow thatthat HHeaveneaven wwillill bebe eternal.eternal. JesusJesus statesstates thatthat HHeaveneaven iiss eternaleternal ((MatthewMatthew 225:46).5:46). saintssaints thatthat rremain.emain. TThishis isis thethe hopehope ofof thethe CChris-hris- PaulPaul speaksspeaks ofof ourour eeternalternal aabodebode iinn HHeaveneaven ((22 CCorinthianorinthian 55:1).:1). TTherehere iiss nnoo eexpirationxpiration ddate.ate. OOncence wwee tiantian wwhenhen deathdeath sstrikestrikes iinn tthishis wworld.orld. WWee hhaveave enterenter HHeaveneaven tthishis wwillill bbee ourour nnewew homehome forever.forever. ImagineImagine thethe greatestgreatest timetime ofof yyourour llife,ife, yyourour ffond-ond- confidenceconfidence inin a dayday wewe willwill bebe unitedunited withwith

1818 FEBRUARYFEBRUARY 20132013 | TTHINKHINK Think February 2013-Interior_Interior 1/22/13 6:31 AM Page 19 YOU CAN KNOW ABOUT HEAVEN

thosethose whom we have lost. Heaven will be a great we still do the things “we hate” (Romans 7:15). As Christians our desire is to please our Father in familyfamily reunion for the faithful in Christ!Christ! all thingsthings (Colossians(C 1:10). Yet the reality of our life is that we still sin (1 John 1:8). It is frustrat- Seventh,Seventh, we know that we will see the ing to us to desire to do right, but so often do wrong (Romans 7:22, 23). In Heaven this will no longer gloryglory of GGod.od. Revelation 21:11 tells us that our be the case.case Since we are removed from this body of flesh and given glorified bodies, we will no futurefuture home “shines with the gglorylory of GGod.”od.” The longerlonger battlebatt temptation and we will be able to do that which we desire, namely glorify God in all earlyearly discdisciplesiples and eyewitnesseseyewitnesses to the life, death, thingsthings ((RomansRom 11:36). and resurrection ofof Jesus beheld the glory ofof Tenth,Tenth, wew know that Heaven is promised to those who are faithful. Recent surveys make it clear Jesus in a way that we all wish we could (John(John thatthat a larlargege majority of people believe they are going to Heaven. It is hard for people to fathom that 1:14).1:14). We are able to gain insightinsight into that gloglo-- God wouldwould punish them. The truth is God’s desire is that all men be saved (2 Peter 3:9), but the rious condition through their writings ((11 John 1:3, reality is thatth few will find salvation (Matthew 7:14). Heaven is reserved for the righteous. These 4).4). In Heaven, though,though, we will fulfullyly experience andand are people who have been made righteous by the blood of Jesus and then practice righteousness trulytruly behold God’s glorious nature. in their livlives.e Salvation is given to those who trust and confess Jesus and respond in faith through Eighth,Eighth, we know that we will no longer faceface repentancerepentance and baptism (Acts 2:38). death,death, pain, and suffering.suffering. Fresh on our minds is thethe tragedy in Newtown, Conn. The death of thethe innocent rightlyrightly makes us long forfor a better day. Any time we see someone suffer,suffer, live in pain, or GOD will wipe away all tears die,die, we are sorrowful. We know that thesethese thingsthings are a result of sin entering into GGod’sod’s good creation.creation. We are promised by GodGod that these occurrencesoccurrences will notnot stretchstretch intintoo ththee aafterlife.fterlife. IInn ThereThere area numerous aspects of Heaven that we might long to know more about. However, what Revelation, where John describes our futurefuture we can knowkno about Heaven is so amazing that speculation about those aspects seems foolish. Heav- abode in magnificentmagnificent terminoloterminology,gy, we are told that en,en, as describeddesc in Scripture, is already beyond our feeble comprehension and rightfully results in God will wipewipe awayaway all tears and that the tree of ourour astoniastonishment.s Just reading the descriptions we have of Heaven in the Bible reminds us how lifelife will be available forfor the healing ofof the nations.nations. difficultdifficult it iis for man to describe the glorious splendor of the final home of the righteous. When we The removal ofof pain, susuffering,ffering, and death is think ooff HeHeaven, in comparison to the place we now dwell, my prayer is that we, like John, say with another magnificent truth we can know aboutabout all excitement,excitem “Come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20). ▲ Heaven.Heaven. Ninth,Ninth, we know that temptation will nnoo longerlonger be there. A fact of life in the flesh is thathatt WesleyWesley WaWalker writes at www.studyyourbibleonline.com

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DEWAYNE BRYANT WHAT THE OLD TESTAMENT SAYS ABOUT THE AFTERLIFE

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Books on Heaven have made a splash recently. The Boy Who Came Back from Heaven tells the him back again? I shall go to him, but he will not story of a six-year-old boy who believes he went to Heaven and talked to Jesus following a car crash. return to me” (2 Samuel 12:23). Both Jacob and Heaven is For Real tells the story of a boy who claims to have visited Heaven during emergency David indicate they believe they would see their surgery, where he visited with deceased relatives. To Heaven and Back is written by an orthopedic children again in the afterlife. surgeon who claims to have drowned during a kayaking accident and reluctantly returned from During his ministry, the prophet Elijah visits a eternal life to fulfill her mission on earth. In Proof of Heaven, a neurosurgeon describes a near-death poor widow and her son in Zarephath (1 Kings experience when bacterial meningitis sent him into a coma. 17:8-24). The boy becomes ill and dies. When Eli- People all over the world have always believed in an afterlife. The ancient Egyptians lived in a jah raises the widow’s son from the dead after culture obsessed with it. The pharaohs began constructing their pyramids and tombs almost from praying, “O Lord my God, have you brought the moment they took the throne. Other peoples ancient and modern shared their concern for a life calamity even upon the widow with whom I beyond the grave. Although some philosophers in Greece and the far East denied the existence of sojourn, by killing her son? … O Lord my God, life after death, widespread disbelief in such is a relatively modern phenomenon. let this child's life come into him again” (vv. 20- Christians derive most of our beliefs concerning afterlife from the New Testament. The Old 21). The child’s soul (Hebrew nephesh) continued Testament is nearly silent on the issue. Despite the infrequent references to the afterlife in the to exist and retain his identity after the boy Hebrew Bible, there are a few passages that help us to understand what the ancient Israelites had expired. believed about it. Jesus’ parable of the rich man and Lazarus clearly indicates that the place of the afterlife con- Existence After Death in the Old Testament tains both the righteous and unrighteous dead The Hebrew writers mention the afterlife only rarely, and what they do mention seems gloomy (Luke 16:19-31). It is unclear whether the belief and sometimes frightening. They describe the realm of the dead, or Sheol, as a dark and dreary pit. in a division in Sheol was present in Old Testa- Israel’s neighbors had a similar view. The ancient Mesopotamians viewed the netherworld as a dark ment times, since no passages make a clear and gloomy place of profound misery. Life was similar to what it had been on earth, only worse. reference to it. It is clear, however, that the right- In poetic language, Sheol is described as deep (Job 11:8), dark (Job 10:21-22), and having bars eous could expect to be redeemed from Sheol (Job 17:16). It seems almost like a subterranean prison. It also appears to be a place where the dead (Psalm 49:15). are conscious. Speaking of the king of Babylon, the prophet Isaiah says that the monarch will be greeted by the inhabitants of Sheol when he arrives there (Isaiah 14:4-21). The prophet Ezekiel paints Death is Not Permanent a similar portrait of the king of Assyria (Ezekiel 32:17-32). Unfortunately, neither prophet spends any Death in the Old Testament is sometimes de- significant time on the fate of the righteous in Sheol, only that of the wicked. scribed as falling asleep (Psalm 13:3; Daniel 12:2). Sheol does not always appear to be a fitful place of fear and dread. In Psalm 139:8, David Similarly, resurrection is described as awakening describes it as a place where God can be found. Another relevant text is 1 Samuel 28:12-20. Saul (2 Kings 4:31; Job 14:12; Daniel 12:2). This imagery has been forsaken by God, rejected twice, and no longer has a prophetic voice to advise him on his is continued in the New Testament, such as in the upcoming battle with the Philistines. He seeks out a female medium at En-dor to speak with the case of Jairus’ daughter (Mark 5:21-24, 35-43; cf. spirit of the prophet Samuel. When Samuel’s spirit appears, he asks Saul, “Why have you disturbed 1 Thessalonians 4:14). The young girl dies before me?” The Hebrew term, meaning to “incite” or “anger,” indicates that Samuel seems to have a Jesus arrives to heal her, prompting her father to conscious existence in the afterlife. The fact that Samuel is angered by being raised may indicate dismiss Jesus. Nevertheless, Jesus continues to that he preferred to remain in Sheol. This would go the home, where he announces to those present against the common interpretation that the realm of that the girl has not died but is merely sleeping. we can the dead was a shadowy, tormented existence. With their incredulous laughter still echoing Two exceptions to the norm are Enoch and outside the house, Jesus raises the girl from have a Elijah. Enoch “walked with God, and he was not, for the dead. God took him” (Genesis 5:24). This is a highly unusual Two of the clearest passages referring to the wonderful hope situation, and the text does not give any specifics. raising of the dead are found in Ezekiel 37 and One creative artist illustrated a Medieval edition of Daniel 12. Ezekiel sees a vision in a valley of dry of things the Bible with a picture showing God’s hand bones in which a great army is brought back from appearing from a cloud and taking a rather surprised the dead. This indicates that Ezekiel and his au- to come Enoch up to Heaven by the hair of his head. Elijah dience were familiar with the idea of resurrection. had an equally unusual passage to the afterlife, be- Daniel is clearer still: “And many of those who ing carried away in a whirlwind (2 Kings 2:11). sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and Personal Identity After Death everlasting contempt” (Daniel 12:2). The passage When a person dies in the Old Testament, the Biblical authors frequently refer to the person as almost sounds as if it belongs on the lips of having been gathered to his people (Genesis 25:8; 35:29) or to his fathers (2 Chronicles 34:28). This Jesus or one of the New Testament writers. seems to be an expression for death, and usually does not refer to the ancestral burial plot or to an Although the Old Testament reveals very actual tomb. Abraham and Aaron were not buried in the same tombs as their fathers. Moses’ bur- little about the afterlife, the New Testament ial site was known only to God. The picture painted by this phrase seems to communicate the idea authors continue the thinking of the Hebrew that those who pass from this life will be reunited with family members who have already died. writers before them. Thanks to the additional The personal existence of the individual is implied in two passages involving grieving fathers. revelation provided by the inspired writers of In Genesis 37:34-35 Jacob, who believes Joseph is dead, says, “I shall go down to Sheol to my son, Scripture, we can have a wonderful hope of things mourning.” Similarly, in 2 Samuel 12 David’s newborn son becomes sick and dies. When his attendants to come which believers before the time of inform him of the child’s passing, David bathes and eats, saying, “Why should I fast? Can I bring Christ could not understand. ▲

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ASHLEY SMITH rust is a big word that many people know the definition of, but not the true meaning. TTrust is not only a noun, but an action. It simply means to “believe in the strength or ability of GRIEF someone or something.” Hearing that word takes me back to a kindergarten game where everyone would pick a partner, close their eyes and as stiff as they could, fall backwards into the arms of a trusted classmate. All you felt was air AND in those few seconds until your partner’s arms clenched you around the waist and hoisted you back up into the normal standing position. You’ve then been caught, lifted up and saved by HOPE someone you put trust into. This simple game accomplished its purpose then in building a stronger class and strengthening friendships, and it still teaches a lesson today. One day you stand tall and firm in your faith in God. You do everything right, but when one thing goes wrong, you feel yourself fall. You slip up on your faith due to being blindsided by the many sin- ful and evil things we as humans face daily. As you fall, there is only one thing you can do before you hit rock bottom and completely ruin yourself. Trust. Trust in God, Savior of the world, to catch you and guide you back up to the person you should be, firmly planted in the Word of God. The Bible gives us so many examples of people who put their trust in God during hard times—David; Esther; Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego; Moses and Aaron; Abraham and Sarah. The list goes on and on. The book of He- brews offers a whole chapter of “faith heroes.” But the one person that sticks out to me the most is Job. Job seemingly had a perfect life start- ing off. In Job 1:1-3 we read, “There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was blameless and upright, and one who feared God and shunned evil. And seven sons and three daughters were born to him. Also, his pos- sessions were seven thousand sheep, three thousand camels, five hundred yoke of oxen, five hundred female donkeys, and a very large house- hold, so that this man was the greatest of all the people of the East.”

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Job had life made. He was a great guy who feared God, he had a beautiful family and piece of people. I was angry, hurt, weak, and exhausted land. Satan knew this. And Satan decided it was time for Job to take that mighty test of faith. Sa- mentally and physically. I went through a really tan slowly destroyed Job’s animals, his family, his body, his life. He took away everything that made terrible few months filled with not eating, de- Job happy, everything that gave Job meaning and life on this earth. He had hit rock bottom. pression, awful thoughts and feelings, incredible Job questions God in Job 7:16-21: rage and exhaustion. I was below 100 pounds, weak and miserable. 16 I loathe my life; I would not live forever. Let me alone, For my days are but a breath. I was forced into a free-fall backwards. Eyes closed, hoping for someone or something to help 17 ‘What is man, that You should exalt him, That You should set Your heart on him, me out. Luckily, God did catch me. Just like David 18 That You should visit him every morning, And test him every moment? in Psalm 91:2, God was my refuge and fortress. He still is because I’m still not over it. I go through 19 How long? Will You not look away from me, And let me alone till I swallow my saliva? stages but I trust in God’s promise to never leave 20 Have I sinned? What have I done to You, O watcher of men? Why have You set me as Your me in Hebrews 13 verse 5. I was caught and God target, So that I am a burden to myself? is pushing me back up again. I’m still not nearly close to what I was before the accident, but I’m 21 Why then do You not pardon my transgression, And take away my iniquity?’ a lot better than I was. Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your Job had gone from loving his life to hating it. Notice that he still believes in God throughout this heart, And lean not on your own understanding; trial. He’s mad and frustrated, but he also continues to be aware that God is God. He never turns In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall his back on God or curses at him, but simply questions him. He wants an explanation for the pain. direct your paths.” This is Job at his worst, alone and in unbearable pain. Due to Job’s faith, God rewarded him with I don’t know why an amazing 16-year-old boy even more than he had in the beginning. He lived 140 years and died happy with many children, grand- had to go while so many terrible people are still children, animals, and land. left out in this world to do bad and harmful things. So Job could have easily said, “God, I have nothing else. You must not be all powerful. You must I don’t know why something so terrible had to not control everything. You let this happen to me and now I do not love you.” But he didn’t. Job let happen to such an amazing family like his who go, fell backwards, and God caught him and brought him back up, better than before. have already been through so much. But that’s not Recently I’ve taken my own fall. Mine was not even close to Job’s, so I can’t even imagine how for me to decide. God put me on this earth know- he pulled through it like he did when I continue to struggle some days. ing what I would go through and He knew I could As I write this it’s been a year, 2 months and 12 days, since I was a typical teenage girl, full of handle it. 1 Corinthians 10:13 tells us that He won't happiness and joy. I had been dating my best friend, Taylor, for 11 months and two days and could give us anything we can’t handle. not wait to hit that one-year mark. He was my hand- some, dark-haired boy in cowboy boots and Wran- glers. The sweetest boy you will ever meet. Perfect manners, great with kids, out- Just lose yourself and fall and let God catch you. going. He helped the kids at school who were mentally challenged and I even saw him yell at a few bullies for messing around with God is directing my path. I know it because He “different” kids. My momma and grandmother adored him and my daddy has put so many opportunities in front of me for thought very highly of him. He gave me sparks and made me crazy happy. me to help others going through the exact same A year, 2 months and 12 days ago, started off like any other normal lazy things. I have since talked with numerous girls who Saturday. I was fighting off a cold but Mom said that if I rested, I could go have lost their boyfriends and have been able out on a date that night with Taylor to Steak ‘n Shake. Around 4:00 I start- to relate and comfort them because losing ed to get ready, putting on my make-up. Taylor had told me he was with your boyfriend is a rare pain. No one can under- Luke, who has been like my little brother for as long as I can remember, stand it unless you’ve been through it before. I’m and that he was about to come get me. I had no idea that Taylor wasn’t sure the same goes with any kind of pain of going to show up at my house that night. losing anyone. Mom came downstairs and interrupted my make-up session to tell me Like I said, things are still rough. I still have that Taylor had been in a bad accident and we headed for the car as fast my days when I'm really depressed or really sad as we could to get to Luke and Taylor. but things are better than they were those first The rest is a blur and something I still cannot talk about to anyone, not few months. No matter what you’re going through even myself. I saw things that night that I have tried to block out of my mem- or what you've been through, just fall. Close your ory for over the past year. I saw and witnessed many things that night that eyes and let go. Just lose yourself and fall and I wish to never go through ever again. I call it my living nightmare because let God catch you. He's the only one that can. He’ll it is the worst thing I have ever been through before. catch you and reward you for not turning your back Although my situation is nowhere near Job’s and I have no right what- on Him. And one day, I’ll see Him face-to-face and soever to question God, I found myself wondering why this had to happen. be able to thank Him for the time He did give me As I lay in bed a couple of days later, crying with Taylor’s momma and with Taylor, not the time He took away. ▲ daddy, I found myself mad at God for making this happen to such amazing

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SMART FAITH Trevor Major

TAKE SWEDEN Swedish Church

Although I have never been there myself, I hear that Sweden is a great the Church of Sweden was compulsory until 1952. It was not officially di- place to live. More than 80% of Swedes believe it is safe to walk their vorced from the state until the year 2000. streets at night. A majority donates to charity, and a majority is very trust- So, when someone like Coyne visits Sweden, he is going to feel safe, ing toward fellow Swedes.1 And yet Sweden is supposed to be one of the and he is going to enjoy the fact that people are not packing the pews on most secular nations in the world, meaning that it is one of the most god- Sunday. How do we explain this disconnect between Sweden’s religious less nations in the world. heritage and its secular reputation? By some estimates, only 2-4% of Swedes attend worship services every Modern Sweden is secular because its people never really had to fight week. According to a European Commission survey conducted in 2005, only for their faith. To be a citizen of Sweden was to be a part of the faith com- 23% say they believe in God.2 munity. It had little to do with right beliefs, right worship, and righteous Atheists look at these numbers and conclude that it is indeed possi- living. Next, Sweden is secular because the state gradually took over the ble for a nation to be good without being under God. Listen to biologist responsibilities of the church. This was easy to do when the church and and atheist Jerry Coyne: the state were in one another’s pocket. And Sweden is secular because Nor should we worry that a society based on secular morality will de- the official church grew increasingly out of step with its own people.5 An generate into lawlessness. That experiment has already been done— unpopular monopoly is still a monopoly, and the Swedes were starved of in countries such as Sweden and Denmark that are largely filled with religious options. non-believers and atheists. I can vouch from experience that secular But secular is not the same as atheist. The underlying morality of Swedish European nations are full of well-behaved and well-meaning citizens, society was baked into the country a long time ago. It had a lot to do with not criminals and sociopaths running amok.3 the Lutheran church. It also had a lot to do with Sweden’s remarkable uni- ty. It is easier to follow the rules when everyone looks, acts, and speaks But is Sweden based on secular morality, and is it largely filled with the same. non-believers and atheists? If Coyne wants to live in a country founded on an explicitly secular moral- In addition to the 23% who believe in God, another 53% believe in some ity, he will have to look elsewhere. May I suggest Hitler’s Germany, or Stal- sort of spirit or life force. What, exactly, does that mean? Are more than in’s Russia, or Pol Pot’s Cambodia, for starters? half of Swedes now pagans and New Agers because they confidently as- Atheists like Coyne benefit tremendously from living in a diverse cul- sert a belief in spirit beings and occult forces? Or did they choose this op- ture with a strong Christian heritage. E pluribus unum—“Out of many, one.” tion because they are not really sure what to believe, but think there is But how can we be one if we do not share a common, objective sense of more to this world than meets the eye? It is difficult to say for sure, but right and wrong? Without God, there is no way to decide what that kind Sweden is hardly a bastion of non-belief and atheism. of morality should be. ▲ There is more. Around 74% of Swedes are registered members of the Church of Sweden. A significant proportion of the population continues 1 “The 2012 Legatum Prosperity Index.” The Legatum Institute. http://www.prosperity.com/CountryPro- to rely on the national church for christenings, confirmation, marriage, and file.aspx?id=752 funerals.4 In one very detailed study of Enköping—a small city west of Stock- 2 Eurobarometer 225: Social Values, Science and Technology. European Commission publication, 2005. holm—64.8% describe themselves as either “strong Christian” or “mild- http://ec.europa.eu/public_opinion/archives/ebs/ebs_225_report_en.pdf ly Christian,” and another 19.7% identify with “non-confessional” church- 3 Jerry A. Coyne, “As Atheists Know, You Can Be Good Without God.” USA Today. http://usatoday30.uses. In other words, almost 85% of the city’s residents consider themselves atoday.com/news/opinion/forum/2011-07-31-atheism-morality-evolution-religion_n.htm to be Christian in some sense or another. Only 10.9% consider themselves 4 Byron J. Nordstrom, Culture and Customs of Sweden (Santa Barbara, CA: ABC-CLIO, 2010), to be “atheists.” pp. 27-45. None of this is really surprising. The Swedish state and the Lutheran 5 Richard F. Tomasson, “Religion Is Irrelevant in Sweden,” in Jeffrey K. Hadden, editor, Religion church were bound together for over four centuries. Being a member of in Radical Transition (New Brunswick, NJ: Transaction Books, 1970), pp. 111-127.

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The top song writer will receive $100 credit in the Focus Press store. Their song will also be featured in a future issue of Think magazine so get those creative juices flowing. All entries will remain the property of the song writer. Think February 2013-Interior_Interior 1/17/13 2:04 PM Page 26

DISSECTING DELUSIONS Ryan Haedge PART 2THE WAR ON “The most merciful thing that a large family does to one of its infant members is to kill it.” – Margaret Sanger / Women and the New Race

I hope that got your attention! “The marriage-bed is the most degenerating influence of the social Last month, I began a series debunking the progressive propaganda WOMENorder.” that Christians are conducting a “War on Women.” In direct aim of this false accusation is the issue of abortion and contraception. Enter Margaret – Alice Groff, “The Marriage Bed,” The Woman Rebel, V.I No. 5, p.39 (edited Sanger … by Margaret Sanger) I suspect many of you have never heard of Margaret Sanger, or if you “Birth control itself, often denounced as a violation of natural law, is had, you probably struggled to remember where you had heard of her. Yet nothing more or less than the facilitation of the process of weeding everyone has heard of Adolph Hitler. I know what you might be thinking, out the unfit, of preventing the birth of defectives or of those who will … “certainly he isn’t going to try and compare this woman with such an become defectives.” innocent name with the most evil man in modern history?” Well, yes I am. I contend to you that there are but two differences of significance between – Women and the New Race “The Goal,” Ch 18 these two people: “Our 'overhead' expense in segregating the delinquent, the defective 1. They are of the opposite sex and and the dependent, in prisons, asylums and permanent homes, our failure to segregate morons who are increasing and multiplying ... demon- 2. Hitler had an army. strate our foolhardy and extravagant sentimentalism. No industrial cor- Margaret Sanger and Adolph Hitler both believed in eugenics and de- poration could maintain its existence upon such a foundation.” sired the same goal of a “clean” human race. However, their methods of achieving their goals were different. Hitler used a bullet; Sanger a pill. – Women and the New Race “Woman and the Future,” Ch 12 In 1921 Sanger founded the American Birth Control League. Over “If plants, and livestock as well, require space and air, sunlight and love, the next 2 decades the ABCL significantly increased its membership, but chlldren need them even more. The only real wealth of our country lies realized that their name was causing an issue for too many women who in the men and women of the next generation. A farmer would rather saw the word control and were afraid it sounded a bit too harsh. So in 1942 produce a thousand thoroughbreds than a million runts. the ABCL was given a new, more pleasant sounding name Planned Par- enthood. How are we to breed a race of human thoroughbreds unless we follow As many of you know, Planned Parenthood is an organization that is the same plan? We must make this country into a garden of children partially funded by the U.S. government, which in 2009 totaled about instead of a disorderly back lot overrun with human weeds … Such homes $360,000,000 (yes, that is $360 million) dollars from taxpayers like you and cannot be gardens in any sense of the word.” me. And, of course, much of this money is going towards the abortion of – “The Meaning of Radio Birth Control,” April 1924, p. 111 healthy, innocent children who have not been given a choice! Consider if the US Government was sending the same amount of “Knowledge of birth control is essentially moral. Its general, though pru- money to the Nazi party, or better yet, to the Ku Klux Klan to continue to dent, practice must lead to a higher individuality and ultimately to a fund and promote the extermination of all “inferior races.” Well, with our cleaner race.” continued support of Planned Parenthood, we technically are! – “Morality and Birth Control,” February-March, 1918, p. 11, 14. Still don’t believe me? Let me share a few quotes of Margaret Sanger as she was founding what would eventually become Planned Parenthood. And as you read these quotes, consider that her dream is being actual- Has eugenics had an impact on your life? The teachings of eugenics are ized today and funded by you and me. far reaching still being taught today. Chances are, you have contributed to this un-Godly teaching, whether knowingly or not. They are interwoven so We should hire three or four colored ministers, preferably with social- deeply into our society that it can become difficult to separate yourself. service backgrounds, and with engaging personalities. The most suc- I will have more to say next month, but for now—just ask that you pray! cessful educational approach to the Negro is through a religious ap- I ask that you look at all humans as God’s children, not as “weeds” that peal. And we do not want word to go out that we want to exterminate need to be plucked from the garden. We do not need contraception to be the Negro population, and the minister is the man who can straight- a moral society; we need God’s Word to be put into practice. ▲ en out that idea if it ever occurs to any of their more rebellious members. – Commenting on the ‘Negro Project’ in a letter to Dr. Clarence Gamble, December 10, 1939

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CONNECTIONSTHE REST OF THE STORY:

KENDRA TUCKER

soldier in Oklahoma is chosen to serve as a Congressional Fellow and is transferred to some way. His position as a Congressional Washington, D.C. A baby in Virginia is diagnosed with an enlarged heart and may need Fellow allowed him contact with many of the A a transplant. A missionary couple decides to take the Gospel to Brazil, but their visa Senate office members, including those working approval is at a standstill, causing them to postpone their move for many months. with a Senator on the Foreign Relations Com- Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, mittee. With their help, the Fowler’s visas were to those who are the called according to His purpose.” The essence of this verse is so difficult to approved and they were on their way to the grasp. Our human minds naturally think in terms of the physical and emotional aspects of the here mission field. and now. In the midst of a trial we turn to God for answers and direction, and more often than not, My sister and brother-in-law have since been we ask for a specific outcome. We know that God has the power to answer prayer, but our feeble transferred to Colorado Springs, Colo., and my minds become conflicted when God’s answer is contrary to what we’ve prayed for, or it seems He niece just celebrated her third birthday. She did hasn’t given us an answer at all. But the question we must ask ourselves is really quite simple. not require a heart transplant, and although she Do we trust God? No, it is not a trick question, but the answer you give has to be wholeheart- will be on medications the rest of her life, we ed and must apply to all petitions that we place before God. We either trust Him or we don’t. If we praise God that she continues to grow and enjoy trust Him with all of our hearts, souls, and minds, there is a peace that comes with that acceptance. a somewhat normal childhood. With the transfer We know that whatever the outcome, God is working in ways we cannot imagine and is giving us to a new Army base, my brother-in-law will most answers that we may never see in our lifetime. likely face a deployment, so we remain in prayer As a wife and a mother, my prayer life is dominated by the everyday worries about family and that he will be safe wherever he is sent, and that children. I must admit that I pray much more often for the physical health of my family rather than he will be a light to others on the battlefield. the spiritual wellness that is far more important. But in the last few years God has blessed me with Nick and Amy Fowler continue their work in life events that have refined my view of prayer, and He has shown me that if I just trust Him, all Belem, Brazil. They have recently opened an out- things truly do work together for good. Seemingly unrelated events in our lives turn out to be con- reach center where they regularly have about 20 nected through a beautiful thread that can only be woven by our Creator. souls who come to study God’s Word. My sister and brother-in-law called us to ask for prayers for my 2-month-old niece. She went in And now you know the rest of the story. We for some tests and a life-threatening heart defect was found. The search for a heart transplant team can’t always see God’s purpose in the things that began. There was no such team in the Washington, D.C. area where they lived, so they traveled happen in our lives. What we can be sure of is here to Nashville to meet with the cardiac department at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital. As usual, that He is always working through us and His we all went to church together the Sunday morning of their week-long visit. Nick Fowler, a missionary answer to our prayers, regardless of whether who was preparing to move his family to Brazil, was the guest speaker in our Sunday school class. we see the end result, will always be “exceed- Nick began the class by updating us on the continuing struggle with the Brazilian government to ingly abundantly above all that we ask or think” get their visa applications approved so that they could begin their mission to save souls in Belem. (Ephesians 3:20). ▲ After class, my brother-in-law approached Nick about the visa issue to see if he could help out in

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DIGGING DEEPER Jack Wilkie In these articles, we’ll look at some study tips for one book/epistle each month. The study tips will include key themes, verses, and words along with some background information. I hope you’ll study these books with me each month, and if you have any thoughts you would like to share on any of the studies, email me at [email protected].

“A Reminder”

2 PETER

In last month’s “Digging Deeper,” we looked at Peter’s first epistle. Writ- which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment ten in approximately 64 A.D., it focused on the persecutions that the Chris- of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior.” So, Peter wanted his readers tians of the first century were facing. In his second letter, Peter focused to be mindful of the things they had heard. Why? So they would be knowl- on the other major problem that the early church was facing. As we can edgeable about the Truth and confident that they could rely on the Scrip- see from 1 John (a letter written about thirty years later), the earliest forms tures and commandments they had received. Why did they need to have of Gnosticism were gaining ground in response to the spread of Christi- that knowledge and confidence? So they could stand strong against false anity. Other false teachings existed at the time as well, but one major teach- teaching. ing that was addressed numerous times in the New Testament was the misunderstanding of Jesus’ return and the afterlife. So, Peter decided to Key Verses write these Christians to remind them that they already knew the truth and Of course, 3:1-2 is the most important section for understanding the book. that they should use it to stand firm against the false prophets in the world. Another purpose statement of sorts can be found in 1:12-15. In this section, Peter noted that his goal was that he could remind them of the Truth Background Information so well while he remained on earth, so they would continue to use those Of all of the twenty-seven New Testament books, none has had its au- teachings after his departure. thorship questioned as much as 2 Peter. The two main charges against his Some of the verses in the book cover both of the major themes. Con- authorship were that it wasn’t confirmed and directly quoted by the ear- sider 1:19-21, where Peter ensured that the Scriptures could be trusted, ly church as were many of the other books, and that the style and content that they should be given attention, and that they will not be changed based matched Jude more than 1 Peter. However, there are numerous reasons on what men say. Another is 3:17-18, where two commands are given–– to assume that the letter is authentic. One commentator addressed the be on your guard against unprincipled men and grow in the grace and knowl- issue early church quotation by saying that “there are possible or proba- edge of Christ. ble traces of 2 Peter in 1 Clement (95 A.D.), 2 Clement (150 A.D.), Aristides (130 A.D.), Hermas (120 A.D.), Valentinus (130 A.D.), and Hippolytus (180 Key Words 1 A.D.).” Stylistically, the letter isn’t an exact replica of 1 Peter, but simi- Because of the focus on false teachers and the need to be prepared to larities exist and 2 Peter is far more credible than any pseudepigraphical refute them, knowledge dominates the text of 2 Peter as a keyword. It ap- writing attributed to Peter. pears in some form (know, known, knowing, or knowledge) seventeen times, As for the date, history tells us that Peter wrote his first letter in 63- or sixteen depending on your translation. Along with knowledge, the word 65 A.D. and that he was killed before 68 A.D., so this second letter would remind is an important one as Peter repeatedly states his goal of remind- have to date back to either 65, 66, or 67 A.D. While he doesn’t open the ing them of what they know. Finally, diligent/diligence occurs four times, letter by addressing his audience in the same way as he did in 1 Peter 1:1, showing the urgency and necessity of the work set before us. many point to the statement in 3:1 where Peter mentions that this is the In an age that is rife with religious teachings of every sort and thou- second letter he is writing to the intended audience as proof that he was sands of different belief sets, we need a constant reminder to be diligent writing to the same group of readers. to grow in knowledge of the Word and stand firm in it. With these principles of 2 Peter in mind, I hope you’ll take some time to go verse by verse Key Themes in this book and work to grow your knowledge by digging deep. ▲ Any time a writer gives a purpose statement as Peter did in 3:1-2, we should take note of it and see the rest of the letter with that point in mind. “Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up 1 Green, Michael. The Tyndale New Testament Commentaries: 2 Peter & Jude. Grand Rapids: Wm. B. your pure minds by way of reminder), that you may be mindful of the words Eerdmans Press, 1987. 14.

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Sandy Prichett A WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE HOW SHOULD A CHRISTIAN VIEW DEATH?

We have all lost loved ones at some point in our lives. Some of them As Christians we should not make this world our home, but make it with we knew that their time was coming to an end while others were unex- our Heavenly Father and Lord. In Philippians 3:14 Paul writes, “I press to- pected. Death comes to everyone. It can be a baby, toddler, child, teenag- ward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Jesus Christ.” 2 er, young adult, middle age, or the elderly. Either way it is still hard for the Timothy 2:4-5 reminds us, “No one engaged in warfare entangles himself ones left behind. As I write this, I know of several families that have lost with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a ones recently. Some of these families knew that their loved one would be solider. And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless taking their final breath. Others had no idea that their loved one would die he competes according to the rules.” so soon. 2 Corinthians 5:1 says, “For we know that if our earthly house, Are we preparing to meet our Heavenly Father when He comes for us? this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made “Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of wit- with hands, eternal in the Heavens.” nesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily snares Why as humans do we fear death? Is it because we do not want to leave us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking our loved ones behind, or is there something that we want to do or say unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was but keep putting it off? I believe so. We are taught to fear death and that set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down death is a terrible thing. As Christians, we should view it as a joyous oc- at the right hand of God” (Hebrews 12:1-2). casion. We will all keep our appointment with death no matter where we As Christians we should look forward to death because we have a home are and what we are doing. Death will take us. As Christians, shouldn’t waiting for us––a home that is far better than any home we can have here we rejoice in death? We have a reward waiting for us if we live our lives on this earth. ▲ as Christians. I am reminded of a song we sing “This World Is Not My Home.”

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Phillip Johnson FAITH MATTERS

FamiliesLETTERS TO Imitating Christ Can you imagine life without a challenges? Without them, life would mercy. We are saved by the grace of God. You can grow in grace by be boring and dull. Without a challenge, life would lose its excitement and being thankful for this undeserved gift. You can grow in grace by sinning passion. I like to be challenged. I enjoy hiking and mountain bike riding and less. Don’t take God for granted. Don’t take your salvation for granted. Don’t snow skiing. When I’m really up for a physical challenge, I try to make it take Jesus’ sacrifice for granted. through a P90X workout. Talk about a physical challenge! I imagine you We are challenged to think as Christ thought. How is this possi- enjoy physical challenges as well. What about spiritual challenges? How ble? God has given us His Word to guide our thinking. Paul describes the do you view the spiritual challenges that you face? What are your ambi- challenge in Philippians 2:5-8. If we develop the mind of Christ, our tions spiritually? What are your spiritual goals? What are you striving to outlook on life will change. If we develop the mind of Christ, we will be achieve for God’s kingdom? 2 Corinthians 5:9 describes the goal of Paul. spiritually focused. If we develop the mind of Christ, our eyes will see the Paul wanted to be pleasing to God. It’s tragically sad when Christians have needs of others. If we develop the mind of Christ, we will have the right no goals; no dreams, no ambitions. Laziness prevents many from pursu- priorities. You will never live as Christ lived until you learn to think as He ing goals. A fear of failure stands in the way for others. Life is a challenge. thought. Jesus lived right because He thought right. You want a challenge? The Christian life in particular is challenging. Christ is the challenge of all Live out the words of Philippians 4:8 and 2 Corinthians 10:5. challenges. His perfect life is the yardstick by which we measure our lives. We are challenged to give as Christ gave. Jesus gave His life for Take a look at 1 Peter 2:21-22. We are called to follow in the footsteps of God’s plan. He gave His life for the church (Ephesians 5:25). He gave His Jesus. This is our mission, this is our challenge. You may be thinking this life a ransom for many (Matthew 20:28). He gave His life for you. Jesus’ is “mission impossible.” How can I be like Christ? After all, He was attitude toward giving is summed up in Acts 20:35. Jesus gave His life. perfect. Before you give up, remember the power you have been given by What are you willing to give? Are you willing to give your time? Are you God. You have the power to come to Christ (Matthew 11:28-30). You have willing to give your energy? Are you willing to give your life? It truly is “more the power to become disciples of Christ (Luke 9:23). You have the power blessed to give than to receive.” to overcome through Christ (Romans 8:37). Think about the power you have! We are challenged to endure as Christ endured. Hebrews 12:1- God has given us power and He challenges us to use that power for His 3 shows us the endurance of Jesus. We are to be like Christ. To be like glory. Are you ready to conquer the challenge of all challenges? Are you Him we must develop endurance. We must endure persecution and affliction. ready for the challenge of Christ? We must endure hardship. We must endure suffering. We must endure We are challenged to live as Christ lived. If we are going to walk trials and temptations. Keep reaching out to your friends. Keep praying. in the footsteps of Jesus, we need to know where He walked. We need Keep studying. Keep growing. Keep enduring. Jesus shows us how. He to know how He walked and examine His life. In my daily Bible reading, overcame Satan. He overcame the temptation to sin. He overcame I am always reading through one of the Gospels. I want to know more about death. He overcame the world. Jesus. I want to know what motivated Him. I want to know how He spent Finally, we are challenged to finish our mission. Jesus finished! His time. When you examine the life of Jesus, you quickly learn that His In John 19:30 Jesus said, “It is finished.” We give up too easily. Don’t give life had meaning. He was a minister. This was His chiefmission in life. What’s up! Nothing was going to stop Jesus from finishing His mission. He was yours? Christ was invested in the lives of other people. What are you in- determined to go to the cross. He was determined to fulfill God’s plan for vesting in? Jesus served others. Jesus prayed for others. Jesus died for His life. At some point our life will be finished. What will be written and others. Jesus lived above the common level. This isn’t always easy, but said about your life? Listen to the words Paul wrote to Timothy as he neared it is always excellent. This isn’t always popular, but it is certainly proper. the finishing point of his life. “For I am already being poured out as a drink We must dare to stand above the mediocre and the average. Jesus lived offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good to do God’s will. To live as Christ lived is not some unattainable dream. fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in the future there Jesus shows us how to live. is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous We are challenged to grow as Christ grew. We don’t know much Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all about the adolescent years of Jesus’ life. Luke gives us some insight in Luke who have loved His appearing” (2 Timothy 4:6-8). This was Paul’s story. 2:52. Jesus grew. He grew intellectually. He grew physically. He grew What will your story be? Finish what you’ve started! Fight the good fight. socially. He grew spiritually. In 2 Peter 3:17-18, Peter challenges Christians Finish the race. Keep the faith. “to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” Jesus is the challenge of all challenges. He is also the reward of all How do we grow in knowledge? Get in God’s Word. Spiritual growth rewards. You can have all the Nobel prizes and Pulitzer prizes ever award- doesn’t happen automatically. It doesn’t happen accidentally. If you read ed. You can have a collection of Oscars and Emmys. You can have the God’s Word, you will grow in your knowledge. What about growing in grace? Heisman trophy. I want Heaven. I want Jesus. Are you fulfilling the chal- How can I grow in grace? God’s great gift to humanity is His grace. Grace lenges Jesus has left you? Now is the time to start. ▲ is a rich word which encompasses God’s love, God’s kindness, and God’s

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