tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-125090282012-01-31T00:06:27.277-05:00Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.comBlogger11411100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-55070418536735425912012-01-31T00:03:00.003-05:002012-01-31T00:06:27.295-05:00

The prophets Haggai and Zechariah were contemporaries but probably of very different ages. One commentator said that Haggai may have been one of the original captives because of the way he mentions Solomon's temple in chapter 2. That would probably make him at least 80 years old. On the other end, Zechariah was considered a young man (2:4) and was probably born in Babylon after the

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-49427206538023623722012-01-13T21:51:00.003-05:002012-01-13T22:12:58.579-05:00

From early on Trenton has been a voracious reader. Sharon used to find him flipping through the phone book one page at a time before he was able to read. And once he learned, he has been trying to read through the entire Bible on his own. That's a great goal but when he got to the prophets, I tried to steer him toward the gospels as something easier to understand. But he would have none of it. "I

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-17495700369737052152011-12-30T20:51:00.011-05:002012-01-24T11:16:33.650-05:00

I came across a rhythmic, acapella piece called "The Name of Jesus" by Howard Helvey. It's not my usual musical style but something that caught my attention recently. The use of rhythmic clapping is almost something you would expect from people working, on a march, or when rowing a boat together — I'm not quite sure. In any event, the arrangement combines the chorus of "All Hail the Power of

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-38276817631894305202011-12-25T09:11:00.004-05:002011-12-25T09:20:00.467-05:00

If you chose to read Matthew 1 this morning to commemorate the birth of Jesus, you may have skipped the first section. It’s a record of his genealogy from Abraham through Joseph and Mary—not quite the most interesting read for a Christmas morning. Or is it? After reading through this list several times, you’ll notice something different about it. Matthew emphasizes the names of five women: Tamar,

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-67569957839588650102011-12-11T14:15:00.008-05:002011-12-11T14:28:49.709-05:00

After reading several chapters from the Bible Prophecy of Jeremiah, I'm thinking that phrase describes his life fairly well. People wanted him sentenced to death for preaching God's message (Jer. 24). A king wanted him killed for writing out God's message (Jer. 36). He was left to die in an empty cistern because certain people didn't like his message from God (Jer. 38). And yet in each situation,

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-15750759878816475982011-11-19T21:37:00.004-05:002011-11-19T21:55:49.046-05:00

Tomorrow's Sunday School lesson takes us from the ministry of Elijah into that of his replacement, Elisha. Having read the biblical accounts of both, it is quite interesting to see how different the two really were. Elijah was more of a hermit while Elisha was always with people. Elijah called down fire from heaven on his enemies while Elisha fed them and sent them home. And yet, God used both of

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-85405565244378811042011-10-25T23:34:00.005-04:002011-10-25T23:44:27.022-04:00

A recent video presentation of the gospel made me very thoughtful -- so thoughtful that I couldn't go to sleep. The video showed a man giving the gospel in under five minutes and in a very clear way. Being a rather inarticulate person in-person, I enjoy hearing someone being able to succinctly speak the truth clearly. After Sharon and I watched it, we thanked the Lord for reaching down to save

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-50339866387769406802011-09-05T23:38:00.003-04:002011-09-05T23:53:44.641-04:00

I've been reading a book about creation and evolution entitled, The Answers Book by Ken Ham, Andrew Snelling, and Carl Wieland. The subtitle is, "Answers to the 12 most-asked questions on Genesis and creation/evolution." If you are looking for one book to answer your questions, this would be a good one to purchase. I've read the first five chapters so far and have appreciated the answers given —

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-8795605635254073452011-08-30T07:29:00.005-04:002011-08-30T09:53:31.961-04:00

How was it that Jesus took the events of Mark 15 so patiently? Among other horrible things, he was falsely accused, crucified, and mocked by those around him. It is so easy for me to fight back when I am accused of wrong and to try to get out of it. And for our Lord, it would have been right for him to tell his accusers that they were wrong. It would have been right to fight against those who

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-91675413896678131092011-08-27T21:07:00.002-04:002011-08-27T21:12:59.457-04:00

The Sunday School lesson for tomorrow covers Ruth 3-4. Naomi works her plan (3:1-18).Boaz works his plan (4:1-17).God works his plan (4:17-18).Kinda simple ... but true.

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-51042653841033519302011-08-23T00:05:00.001-04:002011-08-23T00:05:59.789-04:00

In chapter 14 of The Ministry of Marriage, Jim Binney points out a very important fact. "You are not capable of changing your mate; therefore, you are certainly not responsible to do so. Since only God can, your responsibility is to appeal to God, who is able to change the mind, the heart, and the will" (p. 163). To support this idea he appeals to Proverbs 21:1, 1 Samuel 10:9, and Philippians 2:

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-51188835965075991182011-08-12T23:37:00.005-04:002011-08-13T00:23:21.584-04:00

Trying to answer that question is a bit difficult — especially when you come to Judges 16."In this chapter we find him behaving in so wicked a manner, that many question whether or not he were a godly man. But the apostle has determined this, Heb 11:32. ... The peculiar time in which Samson lived may account for many things, which, if done in our time, and without the special appointment of

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-68902218131580732392011-08-06T22:08:00.001-04:002011-08-06T22:08:20.136-04:00

Remember the time Samson was engaged to a Philistine woman? (Judges 14-15) During the wedding feast, Samson gave his riddle about the lion and honey but the Philistine men couldn't guess the answer. So, they told Samson's fiancée that they would burn her house down unless she gave them the answer. Scared out of her wits, she pleaded with Samson until he finally gave her the answer. After blurting

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-56602878225997358722011-07-28T07:19:00.003-04:002011-07-28T07:43:11.616-04:00

God is able to do great things for those who trust him; but he is not interested in those who boast in their accomplishments after the fact. For instance, when Gideon gathered 32,000 soldiers to fight against the Midianites, God sent home 31,700 of them because they would have boasted once the battle was won. He chose a mere 300 to attack an army described as "locusts in abundance." This tiny

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-42040727891426739532011-07-25T06:23:00.002-04:002011-07-28T07:45:59.292-04:00

"There was a man who had a little threshing floor hidden up by a winepress on a mountain top. And his son Gideon was threshing wheat there in a hidden nook away from the sight of his enemies that perhaps what little wheat they had he might save from the Midianites that the family and the household might not starve. And as he was busy on the threshing floor, the angel of the Lord appeared. It's

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-57434493701437643542011-06-29T01:18:00.003-04:002011-06-29T01:21:57.162-04:00

Brian Bollon visited our church recently to tell us about his family's desire to take the gospel to Taiwan. At the end of his presentation, he gave a nine minute challege from Matthew 9:36-38. I thought it was a good focus on the real need here and across the sea. Click on the following link to hear his message.http://andyrupert.com/sermons/Various/Bollon Matt 9 36-38.mp3

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-43549399748001545962011-06-24T23:01:00.016-04:002011-06-27T10:45:56.828-04:00

Personal Testimony of Andy RupertSince early childhood I had heard the gospel at home, church, and school. Although I had understood the gospel at an early age, sin kept me from having assurance that God had saved me. However, God brought me to repentance and faith during my first week of college during a revival meeting. It was at that time that I turned from my sin, called on God to save me,

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-52751135574700464602011-05-31T19:39:00.004-04:002011-05-31T20:08:13.106-04:00

It's been almost five years since I served as an assistant pastor. I've kept busy during that time, but haven't had the same amount of time to devote to study, discipleship, or writing. Now as I consider what the Lord would have for my future, various thoughts have crossed my mind. Am I ready for a return to pastoring? Is this what God would want me to do? What ministry opportunities would my

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-19978151890342203032011-05-19T22:16:00.005-04:002011-05-19T23:15:23.645-04:00

Remember how things were in the Garden of Eden? The Book of Genesis tells how God created the first man and woman for each other and it was good. That relationship was beautiful — a honeymoon in the perfect environment. But was it everything they needed? I don't think so. As wonderful as marriage is, I don't think it's meant to be the source of ultimate happiness.I think that a lot of people get

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-71904020438803827542011-05-18T06:49:00.006-04:002011-05-18T07:21:46.371-04:00

Last year, two men knocked on our door and asked permission to look for old bottles in our backyard. Our 1830's home once had a pit toilet which doubled as the trash bin. Once that site was located, the men were able to dig through the trash and find a number of old bottles. They unearthed about 20 bottles but nothing of interest to them. Of all that were in the ground, one particular bottle

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-74985587383076208972011-05-15T06:56:00.004-04:002011-05-15T07:29:50.147-04:00

"Disaster pursues sinners, but the righteous are rewarded with good." —Proverbs 13:21Solomon had it right. Those who choose to continue in sin will eventually face disastrous results. Lying will eventually lead to lack of trust and perhaps the loss of your job. Stealing will eventually lead you to jail. Adultery will eventually ruin your marriage. Coveting will lead to discontentment and

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-74532527742841398322011-04-23T22:00:00.002-04:002011-04-23T22:16:25.992-04:00

The tabernacle had just been completed, the priests had been anointed, and the sacrifice had been offered on the altar. Everything had been done as God had commanded when something terrible happened. Two of Aaron's sons, Nadab and Abihu, decided to do something different. They both put incense in their censers and burned strange incense before the Lord. It was not what God had prescribed and the

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-29005498166972563272011-04-16T07:24:00.004-04:002011-04-16T07:36:30.087-04:00

Have you ever been part of a building project? It takes a lot of people to get from the planning stage to building completion. Moses had a similar situation. God had given him specific instructions regarding the tabernacle in which he would be worshiped. However, Moses needed help to get the job done. Thankfully, three things happened that enabled the tabernacle to be built quickly and

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-53433549442524918652011-04-07T06:34:00.005-04:002011-04-07T07:30:44.351-04:00

Soon after the Israelites had escaped from Egypt, God gave Moses the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai. He also gave very specific instructions regarding the tabernacle in which he would be worshiped. The dimensions, designs, and materials needed were spelled out very carefully. But as with any project, they needed someone with expertise and artistic ability to oversee its completion. Who would

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-47343898778474041842011-03-22T06:49:00.007-04:002011-03-22T07:37:14.169-04:00

Have you ever looked at a child and wondered if he had any chance to turn out right? That must have been the case for those who knew Josiah. His grandfather Manassah was the biblical king of Judah who "sacrificed his own son in the fire" and "shed so much innocent blood that he filled Jerusalem from end to end" (2 Kings 21:6,16). For 55 years he worshiped idols and turned the people of Judah away

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-79639744413410585362011-02-20T07:09:00.007-05:002011-02-20T07:28:45.987-05:00

"He who is spiritual can perceive the hand of God in every event,and therefore is able to forgive those who wrong him."Allen P. Ross, "Genesis" in Bible Knowledge Commentary Old Testament,USA: SP Publications, 1989, 94.Joseph went through a lot of painful circumstances because of his brothers. Their hatred for him had almost led to his murder, and eventually led them to sell him as a slave.

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-48472589673528510362011-02-13T07:54:00.003-05:002011-02-13T08:20:42.992-05:00

Ever see a recurring theme in a Bible story? In Genesis 39-41, Joseph is continually recognized as one whom God blessed everything he did. As a slave in Potiphar's house, his master recognized that the Lord was with him and was prospering his work (Gen. 39:2-5). That led to further responsibility in the household. When he was falsely accused and sent to prison, the keeper of the prison put Joseph

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-42714820899687681562011-02-04T07:19:00.003-05:002011-02-04T07:32:05.475-05:00

While preparing for my Sunday School lesson re: Joseph and his brothers, I came across Leviticus 19:17, which says, "You shall not hate your brother in your heart, but you shall reason frankly with your neighbor, lest you incur sin because of him." That in itself is instructive, but after reading the entire chapter, there was so much more.Have you ever wondered why Christians can't do certain

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-36750028845912668082011-01-07T06:32:00.003-05:002011-01-07T06:53:42.150-05:00

The biblical book of Job is one of those books that has made an impact on many people. In the book, Job (a godly man who probably lived the same time as Abraham) is blessed with a family, many possessions, and good health. But because of a Satanic attempt to pull him away from God, all of that is taken away. The hero refuses to curse God as Satan was hoping, but as you would suppose, he does

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-87918868593129532322010-12-27T23:07:00.002-05:002010-12-27T23:08:33.697-05:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-19929137741475498332010-12-22T12:20:00.006-05:002010-12-22T12:32:53.031-05:00

Distorting the Tax Policy DebateGeorge Orwell warned us about the use of “meaningless words” in politics, words that are endlessly repeated by sloganeering politicians until they have no meaning at all. Meaningless words certainly were on display during last week’s congressional debate over the latest tax bill.Over and over again we heard trite, empty phrases like “tax cuts for the wealthiest 2%

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-39159212319269361462010-12-10T06:54:00.004-05:002010-12-10T07:15:39.302-05:00

If you are familiar with the story of Lot, you know that his choice to live near Sodom eventually cost him his wife and family. The steady influence of the people in that city influenced him and his family so much that he would eventually offer his two youngest daughters to be abused by a mob. How did it happen that someone described as "righteous" in the book of Hebrews would do such a thing.

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-59570372212805414832010-11-30T06:32:00.005-05:002010-11-30T06:39:48.356-05:00

Although the Bible doesn’t say specifically, we receive the impression that Abram at this time was living more or less as a nomad, moving with his flocks and herds wherever he could find water and pasture and wherever the inhabitants of the land were not too numerous. Although God had promised him the land, as well as a seed to inherit the land, this was not yet the time for the fulfillment of

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-61165812238511601892010-11-25T07:56:00.000-05:002010-11-25T07:57:20.584-05:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-48753719687447374352010-11-21T06:28:00.006-05:002010-11-21T07:25:03.305-05:00

There is something about the book The Swiss Family Robinson that intrigues me. I think it's the idea of starting over on a deserted island away from all the cares of this world. On my own island (I dreamily presume) I would have few troubles and could enjoy the rest of my life. Sure, I know nothing about farming or survival, but the dream still exists. The big idea is that problems are a result

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-37312131714002356402010-11-13T07:38:00.003-05:002010-11-17T09:27:25.392-05:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-84624064391101166652010-11-11T07:03:00.001-05:002010-11-11T07:05:03.766-05:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-62792100053100901492010-11-05T06:06:00.003-04:002010-11-05T06:22:09.741-04:00

At the end of his epistle to the Colossians, Paul greets a number of specific people. One of them must have neded some encouragement to continue the ministry he had been given.And say to Archippus, "See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord."Colossians 4:17There have been a number of people who have encouraged me to get back into the full-time ministry over the past

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-80302168786804819732010-11-02T10:18:00.004-04:002010-11-02T10:20:57.809-04:00

After years of studying business and economics, I have come to the conclusion that the government cannot create private sector jobs. The sole responsibility of government is to follow the Constitution and enforce laws. A functioning limited government will foster an environment where individual citizens and businesses can create jobs.Matthew P. CantrellLibertarian Candidate for Ohio Treasurer

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-36125090965742139752010-10-13T07:08:00.011-04:002010-10-19T07:29:15.918-04:00

"This chapter serves at least three ends in the scheme of Genesis. First, it bears witness to man's value to God, by naming individuals and stages in this early human phase: each is known and remembered. Secondly, it shows how the line of Seth the 'appointed' (4:25) led on to Noah the deliverer. Thirdly, it both demonstrates the reign of death, by its insistent refrain (5b, 8b, etc.), and

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-88403179823594627452010-10-08T06:48:00.009-04:002010-10-10T07:53:39.709-04:00

Do you remember that question often asked by grade school teachers? It was usually, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" I don't remember a follow-up question at the time, but a good one would have been, "What are you doing to make that happen?" Those who want to become professional athletes must discipline their minds and bodies to have any hint of success. Those who want to be a medical

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-12961954217268575032010-10-03T08:13:00.004-04:002010-10-03T08:33:27.556-04:00

As I consider the way that the gospel is currently presented by Christians, it seems that most do not believe that God is sovereign over salvation. The idea seems to be that anyone can come to God by his own choice apart from the work of the Father and Holy Spirit. While the Scriptures do call for sinners to respond to the gospel with faith and repentance, they also teach us that none seeks after

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-3500554314002512962010-10-01T06:51:00.007-04:002010-10-01T07:13:14.466-04:00

When Satan tempted Eve to sin against God, he used a subtle form of discontentment to persaude her that God was not giving her what was best. He told her that God's prohibition was keeping her from becoming like God and that only good would come of it. Sadly, his persuasive speech planted enough doubt in her mind that she forgot all that God had done for her already. In effect, a stranger

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-62548453998290010682010-09-30T06:29:00.003-04:002010-09-30T07:05:10.419-04:00

Have you ever doubted God's intentions when tempted to sin against him? If you are a human being, you probably have experienced this at one time or another. This is exactly what Morris brings while discussing the serpent's tactics with Eve in the Garden of Eden (Gen. 3:1-5)."If one studies each situation closely enough, he will find that sin always begins by questioning either the Word of God or

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-42337660946283082662010-09-30T06:12:00.003-04:002010-09-30T06:29:07.414-04:00

In cases of doubtful meanings of Scripture, one must not be dogmatic; but at the same time, he should not forget the cardinal rule of interpretation; the Bible was written to be understood, by commoner as well as scholar. Therefore it should normally be taken literally unless the context both indicates a nonliteral meaning and also makes it clear what the true meaning is intended to be.Henry M.

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-62065045674568000122010-09-09T12:46:00.001-04:002010-09-09T12:46:50.448-04:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-13387914124596949162010-08-30T06:22:00.007-04:002010-09-02T07:13:08.522-04:00

"And he is the head of the body, the church." Colossians 1:18Your body is an amazing organism. Just think about the functions it is able to accomplish on a daily basis. You can see with your eyes, hear with your ears, smell with your nose, taste with your tongue, talk with your mouth, run with your feet, work with your hands, and feel with your skin. All of these abilities are organized and

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-67863457568587523342010-08-23T21:51:00.003-04:002010-08-24T07:18:05.128-04:00

"Faith comes from God. Its success does not depend on the life or death of a man."—the Swiss Reformed after the death of Ulrich ZwingliAs quoted by Jean Henri Merle D'Aubigne in For God and His People: Ulrich Zwingli and the Swiss Reformation, (Greenville, SC: BJU Press, 2000), 263.

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-84066447448286271672010-08-23T06:05:00.009-04:002010-08-24T07:17:36.201-04:00

"He is ... the firstborn of all creation." Colossians 1:15Those who do not believe that Jesus is God have used this phrase to "prove" that the Son of God is a created being. They teach that Jesus was the first thing created by God. However, this does not jive with the rest of Scripture. Jesus is the Word that was in the beginning with God, that was God, and created all things (John 1:1-3).

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-55125345959238429212010-08-20T07:15:00.004-04:002010-08-20T07:25:44.027-04:00

"He is the image of the invisible God... ." Colossians 1:15Who is Jesus? According to the apostle Paul, Jesus is the image of the invisible God. But what does that mean? The word Paul used was εικων which means "image, likeness; form, appearance."1 In the Greek language, it was used to describe "the emperor's head on a coin" or "an image of a god."1 For those who first read Paul's letter to the

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-89325729895290776552010-07-29T06:57:00.008-04:002010-07-29T08:02:48.777-04:00

"And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord..." (Col. 1:9-10 ESV).Paul prayed that the Colossian believers would live "in a manner worthy of the Lord." What does that mean? To be honest, I don't feel worthy of the Lord. My own

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-80387784327337922082010-07-26T22:36:00.005-04:002010-07-26T23:04:16.913-04:00

Last year, I was invited to speak for this year's Junior 1 Camp at Peniel Bible Camp. After many months of preparation, the time finally came ... and has gone. It was a great time ministering to the third and fourth graders who attended as well as to the various staff members. And from the reports I've heard, the Lord used the messages and the follow-up to draw several to himself.The camp

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-15855579617097594032010-07-21T07:54:00.005-04:002010-07-21T08:06:19.655-04:00

"Christ, very man and very God, has purchased for us a never-ending redemption. For since it was the eternal God who died for us, His passion is therefore an eternal sacrifice, and everlastingly effectual to heal; it satisfies the divine justice for ever in behalf of all those who rely upon it with firm and unshaken faith."As quoted by Jean Henri Merle D'Aubigne in For God and His People: Ulrich

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-6889345179921934652010-07-07T22:10:00.000-04:002010-07-07T22:11:23.773-04:00

Just trying to show Trenton that other boys have learned to cope with curly hair.

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-37974950825487186732010-07-04T08:22:00.001-04:002010-07-04T08:24:57.952-04:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-80996159636605473412010-07-03T06:59:00.004-04:002010-07-03T07:19:14.187-04:00

This morning I took a long walk during which I thought about what Jesus said in John 6:44: "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day." His point was that those listening to him would not believe until God the Father drew them to himself. It takes a supernatural work of God to convince sinners of their sinfulness, lack of

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-87153469641398968652010-06-30T07:37:00.003-04:002010-06-30T08:00:03.001-04:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-39262641330007391272010-06-30T07:02:00.005-04:002010-06-30T07:25:57.465-04:00

1. The Example of Saul (1 Sam. 15)a. Saul disobeyed God's command.b. Samuel confronted him about his sin.c. Saul tried to talk his way out of it.d. Samuel confronted him again.e. Saul admitted his sin and asked to be forgiven.f. Saul continued to sin against the Lord.g. Question: Did Saul really repent? Why?2. The Example of David (2 Sam. 11-12)a. David killed a man and took his wife.b. Nathan

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-4701777083875674182010-06-29T13:35:00.000-04:002010-06-29T13:36:32.681-04:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-27949956691398288732010-06-29T08:35:00.001-04:002010-06-29T08:40:27.154-04:00

“What a tragedy when God’s people care more for creaturely comforts than for the interests of God’s will among men.”John D. Hannah, “Jonah” in Bible Knowledge Commentary Old Testament, (USA: SP Publications, 1989), 1472.

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-54266528420047715122010-06-22T20:02:00.004-04:002010-06-22T21:06:51.456-04:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-38674655536173562822010-06-19T12:42:00.001-04:002010-06-19T12:43:36.839-04:00

Is this a reference to Constantine or King Arthur?

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-4197195825733773342010-06-08T06:17:00.005-04:002010-06-08T07:24:50.985-04:00

For though the LORD is high, he regards the lowly,But the haughty he knows from afar.Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life;You stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies,And your right hand delivers me.The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me;Your steadfast love, O LORD, endures forever.Do not forsake the work of your hands.Psalm 168:6-8 ESVAs I read this psalm

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-73009872839397134912010-05-26T23:52:00.002-04:002010-05-27T06:51:45.829-04:00

"Pleas, tears, arguments, or threats will not penetrate. Reason is useless. We cannot simply say, 'Stop doing drugs, get control of yourself, stop worshipping an idol.' As a result of spiritual oppression, drug worshippers may be very intelligent, but they can be oblivious to the destruction and slavery associated with drug abuse. They need the power of God (1 Cor. 1:18), the message of Christ

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-8612753196164682412010-05-25T20:09:00.002-04:002010-05-25T20:14:15.297-04:00

...was quoted in an Ohio State Lantern article.Many stations were arranged throughout the encampment: an artillery camp, a music tent, an infantry tent and a medical hospital station. Many of the volunteers who participate in Civil War re-enactments study actual historical figures to enhance the experience.Michael Rupert portrayed a Civil War medic named Benjamin Pittman.“If you were hit by a

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-88362253213264250912010-05-25T19:54:00.001-04:002010-05-25T19:54:42.568-04:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-51727802525021360422010-05-25T15:24:00.006-04:002010-05-25T16:54:23.687-04:00

Two men arrived on our doorstep today with an interesting proposition. Having noticed the Century home plaque on the front of our house, they wanted permission to dig up the old pit toilets in search of old glass bottles. They even agreed to split anything they found with us. I was a bit leery about two strangers digging in my back yard, but gave them my permission. I guess it was the

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-24099974549267906292010-05-24T12:44:00.003-04:002010-05-24T18:20:45.277-04:00

Paul clarified his views in a written statement Thursday, saying whatever concerns he may have had about parts of the Civil Rights Act, he has not — and has never — called for repealing it. "Even though this matter was settled when I was 2, and no serious people are seeking to revisit it except to score cheap political points, I unequivocally state that I will not support any efforts to repeal

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-29500004161521492962010-05-24T06:55:00.004-04:002010-05-24T07:03:59.383-04:00

He went out again beside the sea, and all the crowd was coming to him, and he was teaching them. And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, "Follow me." And he rose and followed him. And as he reclined at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners were reclining with Jesus and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. And

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-8955564984461912112010-05-22T21:57:00.003-04:002010-05-22T22:03:21.141-04:00

"William Carey was a shoe maker who applied to go as a foreign missionary. Someone asked him, 'What is your business?' meaning to humiliate him, because he was not an ordained minister. Carey answered, 'My business is serving the Lord, and I make shoes to pay expenses.' ... Oh, that men were that kind of workers today—it would change the whole labor scene."J. Vernon McGee in Ephesians,

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-87273800233049211452010-05-22T12:30:00.002-04:002010-05-22T12:34:44.445-04:00

“The federal government has far overreached in its power grabs. Just look at the recent national healthcare schemes, which my opponent supports. The federal government, for the first time ever, is mandating that individuals purchase a product. The federal government is out of control, and those who love liberty and value individual and state's rights must stand up to it.”U.S. Senate candidate

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-63938078621572886382010-05-20T14:43:00.002-04:002010-05-20T14:44:23.509-04:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-78964513466629624522010-05-20T09:05:00.009-04:002010-06-13T15:58:37.493-04:00

Is there a God? You may be wondering about that yourself. You've heard people talk about God at weddings and funerals, but as far as you're concerned he doesn't exist. When you look at the world you don't see evidence for God. What you see is a bunch of people trying to make the best of life until death ends their existence. Where is God in that?The truth is that God does exist and he is actively

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-76322101386577504052010-05-19T07:55:00.004-04:002010-05-19T21:29:07.323-04:00

"A fool takes no pleasure in understanding,but only in expressing his opinion."Proverbs 18:2 ESVA fool is someone who habitually makes poor choices with his thoughts, speech, and action. In this context, he is someone who voices his opinion with no regard for the wisdom he might gain from others about the subject. Read the comments at the bottom of any ESPN.com article and you will know exactly

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-26364107769165505942010-05-18T13:09:00.003-04:002010-05-18T13:13:31.363-04:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-89298426214651598002010-05-10T06:58:00.002-04:002010-05-10T07:02:30.781-04:00

As I have been studying the book of Revelation in Sunday School class, one thing has become quite clear. Regarding the judgments against ungodly men during the Tribulation, one commenter rightly sums things up:... the greatest judgments that can befall men, will not bring to repentance without the grace of God. To be hardened against God, by his righteous judgments, is a certain token of sure

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-40423941811319533822010-05-04T20:12:00.002-04:002010-05-04T20:15:00.270-04:00

I love the team work of this couple playing the same guitar. Notice the expressions on their faces as they play and the way they switch parts. At one point she is picking for him and vice versa. It makes for a very entertaining presentation.

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-79620943011332529142010-04-22T08:51:00.002-04:002010-04-22T09:02:27.914-04:00

Ever hear someone say that? The idea seems to be that you should do your wild living while you're young and irresponsible. Then when you are older and wiser, you should settle down and live with more restraint. Unfortunately, the law of the boomerang comes into play: what you sow you will also reap. That came to mind this morning as I read Proverbs 22:8.He who sows iniquity will reap

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-41515413294210328422010-04-19T12:28:00.000-04:002010-04-19T12:29:08.674-04:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-9562351169617584132010-04-16T21:36:00.001-04:002010-04-16T21:37:28.958-04:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-85781238097810614382010-04-14T17:42:00.001-04:002010-04-14T17:43:48.132-04:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-56135221424803536712010-04-12T22:12:00.001-04:002010-04-12T22:13:38.075-04:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-33953939097294377902010-04-08T07:19:00.004-04:002010-04-08T07:33:09.721-04:00

A recent conversation caused me to study in detail the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ. While I have not yet written a definitive statement from my study, I thought it would be good to share several resources that have been helpful.The Deity of Christ (Pt. 1) (mp3) by Dr. Phil Fernandes Is Jesus God? (mp3) by Stephen HollandHow to Effectively Communicate the Trinity to a Jehovah’s Witness (article

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-50133663348183411642010-04-01T07:17:00.005-04:002010-04-01T07:24:09.592-04:00

Hurrah! Our Painesville Bible Club won the 2010 Bible Club Challenge at Bible Community Church!

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-73396011910821814592010-03-31T12:10:00.002-04:002010-03-31T12:24:45.294-04:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-54990458696617021692010-03-28T22:03:00.000-04:002010-03-28T22:04:09.099-04:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-85919289795835894962010-03-27T18:17:00.004-04:002010-03-31T12:26:18.080-04:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-50434030777512874082010-03-26T06:40:00.003-04:002010-03-26T06:50:42.444-04:00

This morning we woke up to local Christian radio station. After the news, the station's ditty triggered a memory of a popular song from the past. Unfortunately, it wasn't a good one. So, as I stumbled into the shower, I asked the Lord to give me a new song to replace that one. Immediately I was reminded of this wonderful song:There's a new song in my heartSince the Savior set me freeThere's a new

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-70871899929056030592010-03-19T06:46:00.005-04:002010-03-19T07:10:05.228-04:00

While reading through Jesus' messages to the churches in Revelation, a certain phrase caught my attention:"And I gave her time to repent..."The situation involved a woman named Jezebel who claimed to be a prophetess but was teaching the people to commit sexual immorality. Such wickedness did not escape the eye of our all-knowing Lord, and yet he gave her time to repent. With all the harm she was

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-56112069317168839482010-03-16T11:36:00.005-04:002010-03-16T11:45:43.881-04:00

Feliz cumpleaños, Katrina. Espero que tengas un día agradable. Me alegro de tener una hermana como usted, no importa lo que todos dicen. ¿Cómo es que para una traducción de Google?su hermano que te quiere,Andrés

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-38435934963980736742010-03-15T06:50:00.001-04:002010-03-15T06:51:52.458-04:00

The hand of the diligent will rule,But the lazy man will be put to forced labor.

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-31124832915302845802010-03-13T07:00:00.001-05:002010-03-13T10:35:43.388-05:00

When I was saved, I thought that IThe whole wide world would winI’d sail the seas and plant the crossWhere it had never beenI never dreamed, the Lord would sayYou are not called to goYou simply stay at home and workWith Sister So and SoI’ve heard the missionaries tellHow often they face deathBecause of savage tribes and beastsAnd pythons in their pathBe sure, I’m thrilled at all these talesI don’

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-9268278536360406852010-03-02T07:09:00.007-05:002010-03-03T07:12:00.620-05:00

In Matthew 25:14-30, the Lord Jesus used a story to illustrate what the future would be like. In the story, a king called together his three servants and entrusted each of them with a certain amount of money. Apparently, he knew what each one could handle. The first was entrusted with five talents of money, the second with two, and the third with one. While the king was gone, his servants had

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-20090633261689337662010-02-24T17:59:00.000-05:002010-02-24T18:00:00.022-05:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-73724095851217325082010-02-22T13:30:00.000-05:002010-02-22T13:31:10.343-05:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-9642662424311547542010-02-19T13:10:00.001-05:002010-02-19T13:10:34.599-05:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-53021754186377234512010-02-18T20:41:00.003-05:002010-02-18T20:46:37.032-05:00

Congratulations to Matthew, Tommy, and Jefferson for achieving the Arrow of Light and crossing the bridge into the Boy Scouts program. And a big thank you to Tom R. for working with the boys for the past couple of years. I hope you all do well in the future.

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-77559539815465235102010-02-18T06:54:00.003-05:002010-02-18T07:20:25.923-05:00

Last night, I planned to repeat the Bible Club lesson for our teen group at church. But when I arrived, a search of my vehicle revealed that my Bible and notes had been left at home. That didn't stop God from answering my prayer as I had been asking him how to apply it to the teens. His answer was the lesson that "evolved" from our Wednesday evening discussion.I remember Dr. Ollila (Northland

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-28258975382270393482010-02-17T12:23:00.000-05:002010-02-17T12:24:13.101-05:00

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12509028.post-47176887177862053402010-02-16T06:48:00.005-05:002010-02-16T07:26:23.130-05:00

The following lesson was written for today's Bible Club lesson:Many years ago, Jesus healed a blind man who had been blind since birth. But the religious leaders were so against him that they couldn't accept the fact that it had happened. They were so against Jesus that they eventually kicked the blind man out of their synagogue. It was a strange reaction to a wonderful miracle performed by the

Andy Ruperthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01981094652064715663noreply@blogger.com0