The Forgiveness of Sins Part 2, by Antonio da Rosa

PRELIMINARY CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE WE GET INTO THE MEAT OF OUR STUDY
Zane Hodges once wrote:
“It may seem strange to say it, but the grace movement must face the danger of not being open to God’s Word.
Most grace people probably feel that openness to God’s Word is a hallmark of the grace movement. After all, we are prepared to let the Scriptures speak even if they clearly contradict long-held traditional interpretations. The doctrine of rewards is one such area where the grace movement seems prepared to let the Scriptures speak.
I agree that this has been a strong point of the grace movement up until now. I hope it will continue to be. But there are some warning flags.”
And continued:
“…the grace movement must bring all of its convictions to the bar of Scripture. And we must be prepared to revise these convictions however God’s Word requires. No movement can remain vital which no longer examines itself in the light of Scripture.
When such examination of our convictions ceases, tradition and dead orthodoxy are not far down the road.”
An Indispensable Method Used to Systematize the Doctrine of the Forgiveness of Sins:
Throughout my years of Bible College and Seminary, I was introduced to many helpful, methodical approaches to studying the Bible. One approach that I have found useful in my own study is the observation, extrapolation, and application method. You start out with a text of Scripture and write down as many observations concerning it as you can, without making any inferences or interpretations of the text. One is to simply make declarative statements concerning the data in the text itself. Next, based on the wealth of information contained in those observations, one would make inferences and extrapolations, but only as far as the text could legitimately allow. This second step is basic interpretation. In class, we were not allowed to make any inference that couldn’t be supported from the text at hand. We did this in order to stay “in bounds” with the text. If there was not enough information within the text itself for a particular pronouncement, we were not allowed to make it.
This type of precaution will be very important in our study of the Forgiveness of Sins, because for years we have been handed down interpretations of these passages and have rarely questioned them. And when they are questioned, we usually run to our traditional understandings rather than making careful observations about them.
Certainly, as all students of the Bible know, all the information concerning a doctrine present in a particular text may not be present in the text being considered. So in order to grow in understanding of the issues, the other texts would need to be studied in the same way, with the observations and extrapolations. The information gleaned from all the relevant texts could be used to make greater extrapolations and interpretations, and thus the issue could be considered using all the relevant biblical data and legitimate conclusions could be made – and at the same time the rules of the study prevent improper use of the text, the inclusion of secondary assumptions not found in the text, and erroneous interpretation (and by extension improper application). This method is a beneficial tool when doing systematic theology.
The Dangers of Imprecise Observation and Interpretation:
This type of exercise is very helpful when studying any biblical doctrine. I used this very same process to come to the conclusions that I did concerning God’s forgiveness of sins in the New Testament. I have found, as in my study of forgiveness of sins, that I and others have been guilty of making inferences that can't legitimately be supported by reasoned observation and extrapolation and then asserting them as biblical fact. Furthermore, I note that I and others have fallen into the error of "implicit faith," by which we have, without the application of focused study or critical thinking, regarded and taught as truth a wide range of tenets springing from various theological traditions, and not from our own personal study.
We must be on guard about this! Too often I find that we go too far in our theological pronouncements, going beyond what may be legitimately extrapolated from the scriptural data. WE MUST COMMIT OURSELVES ANEW TO STAY “IN BOUNDS” WITH CARE AND PRECISION, GOING BACK TO THE RELEVANT TEXTS, DETERMINING TO RECEIVE NOTHING MORE FROM THE TEXT THAN WHAT CAN LEGITIMATELY BE ASCERTAINED FROM IT. This point, in my estimation, cannot be overemphasized! The imprecise handling of the biblical texts can have a snowballing effect, as illegitimate inferences can be used to make more, which then in turn can be used to make greater ones and so on.
Reader, is it possible that you have not been careful enough with the handling of Scripture? To admit so, as I do, can be humbling, indeed. Some authors, I have read, have been very obstinate to confess their shortcomings, because they have been “published” and their pride and reputation are on the line. One of the many things that I have admired about Zane Hodges is that he continued to test his beliefs against a proper consideration of the Scriptures. Zane’s prayerful and methodical approach to the study of Scripture produced clarity, modifications, and even changes in his beliefs, and he was not afraid to announce them. Fidelity to the Scriptures is far more important than any other consideration. I hope that you will judge this true as well, no matter where you eventually will be in relation to this current study of God’s forgiveness of sins in the New Testament.

Forgiveness of Sins Part 1 by Antonio Da Rosa

What is to follow is a treatise concerning the Forgiveness of Sins, which will be posted a little at a time. With this first post I wish to make some general remarks about forgiveness that I intend to fully develop and substantiate in the coming days. Your comments, questions, and objections are welcomed, for I submit this series for your approval.
Opening Statements on the Forgiveness of Sins:
"Forgiveness of Sins" is not an eternal consideration of God; only a temporal one. When one believes in Jesus for eternal life he does not receive an eternal forgiveness of sins. Furthermore, it is incorrect to state that there is a "forensic" or “legal” forgiveness, which is an illegitimate confusing of categories, as we shall see.
The forgiveness of sins is precisely this: The one made alive by Christ is forgiven of all the sins that he has ever committed in the past (2 Peter 1:9) and has the privilege, right, and opportunity to come to the Father, through the name of Jesus Christ, to have any and all future sins forgiven (1 John 1:9).
Forgiveness of sins is a temporal issue. It deals with our harmony and fellowship with God in the here and now. Many distinct and varied blessings to the regenerate flow from the magnanimous death of Christ. Some are eternal in nature, and some are benefits that are specifically designed for us in our pilgrimage here on earth.
People are not careful enough, in my estimation, when reading and studying the word of God, to make critical distinctions in the Bible. Justification does not equal forgiveness of sins does not equal eternal life, etc. They are all distinct, even if they all come in the salvific package. Eternal life is God’s divine life, in which all things necessary to prepare one to live with God forever resides. Justification is a legal declaration from God and the imputation of perfect righteousness, which springs from eternal life. And forgiveness of sins remits all past sins at the time of regeneration, and provides the basis upon which all future sins may be let go.
Forgiveness of Sins is Not Legal in its Purview. It is Personal:
Forgiveness is not a legal issue! Think about it for a second. A judge is not in the business of dispensing forgiveness! He hands down judgments of guilty or not guilty; he acquits or condemns; he makes pronouncements based on the law. A judge does not concern himself with matters of forgiveness. Forgiveness is a PERSONAL issue between two or more parties.
Of course a judge can forgive; he just does not do so in a context of jurisprudence. Let’s say that you stole the judge's car and were in front of him for that charge. He could find you guilty and then come down off the bench, take off his robe, and upon your contrition offer you forgiveness. Forgiveness is a personal issue.
In all the occurrences of the 2 Greek words aphiemi (to forgive) and aphesis (forgiveness) resides not a single passage necessitating the doctrine of eternal forgiveness of sins; but many clearly denoting temporal forgiveness for the benefit of restoring or continuing fellowship with God.
Get your thinking started here. Realize that forgiveness is not judicial, but relational. I mean, comon, shouldn’t this go without saying? This is a reasonable distinction.
Then ask yourself, "Why would God have to forgive a man temporally for what has already been forgiven eternally, if what was given to him at the moment of salvation is eternal forgiveness?" This consideration alone ought to jar you a little!
A Few Reasons Why this Study is Important:
Jesus, when evangelizing, almost used exclusively the term "eternal life". For sure, forgiveness of sins is given when one believes in Jesus for eternal life (see Peter's preaching to Cornelius in Acts 10:43), but it is past sins that are in view (see 2 Peter 1:9); and also in view is the ability to be forgiven of future sins by confessing them to the Father (1 John 1:9).
Irrevocable eternal life is the main concern and priority in the saving message of both Jesus and His apostles. Through the message of life, unending life, resurrection and physical immortality, and eternal participation in the world to come is offered (and by corollary, experience of the eternal life in abundance and ever increasing measure in the life now). In evangelism, we are to prefer the use of eternal life, rather than eternal forgiveness of sins, because there is no clear passage offering an eternal forgiveness of sins by grace through faith. As a matter of fact, our eternal standing with God and our eternal destiny DOES NOT DEPEND A WIT UPON FORGIVENESS, as we shall see in the posts to come.
Like Jesus, presenting eternal life should be the primary focus of our evangelism.
Some Parting Words to this Installment:
Future forgiveness of sins is not granted like an indulgence giving assurance that all future, temporal, personal fellowship with God will be maintained despite what one's future actions and attitudes may be. And an all-encompassing eternal decree of forgiveness is both confusing to thought (eg. a man being God-forgiven and God-unforgiven of the same sin at the same time) and completely unnecessary to eternal felicity (see below).
An objection may be stated that apart from some sense of eternal forgiveness of sins that one could not be assured of heaven upon death. We must realize that forgiveness of sins was designed to be a benefit solely in time. When eternity comes for the believer, eternal life (God's kind of life, necessary if one is to live with God) and justification (God’s imputed righteousness) are operative. These considerations, as we shall see, alone assure heaven. The forgiveness of sins (which is always temporal) does not.

Works Needed For eternal life?

Ok I am going to post the 3 views I am aware of and would love feedback.

1) Works are needed for eternal life.   John 3:16 was not everything you need to receive it.. or a slight variation is that you gain it with belief but lose it with out works.  Since the end result is identical I see no difference. Either way, if you are not good enough you don't make it, which puts you in the chair of saving yourself.

2) Works AUTOMATICALLY follow if you are a "real" believer.  No works (or not enough works), no eternal life.  Very similar to # 1 but a variation of it.

3) Works enhance your life and earn rewards AFTER you have become a believer and received eternal life.  Failure to do so may lead to harsh consequences but not a loss of the gift of eternal life.

If you can think of something that does not fall into these, please share!

Repentance needed for eternal life

There are 3 main views.

1)  Repentance is a turning from Sin and is a requirement for eternal life

2) Repentance is a changing of your mind about Jesus Christ and is a requirement for Eternal Life

3) Repentance is turning from sin but is not a requirement for eternal life.

I hold to 3, but would love to discuss it further.

From Monastery to Free Grace. The Journey and Testimony of a Friend.

From Monastery To Free Grace , by Tim Grady .

 
{1. Beginnings .}

 

My name is Tim Grady . Born Aug. 21 , 1958 in Kankakee , Illinois to Dr. and Mrs. Grady , and had ten brothers and sisters : seven sisters , and three brothers .

I was raised in an Irish Roman Catholic home , and was an altar boy for nearly 10 years , with a tremendous respect for the clergy ; all things traditional , religious , and Roman Catholic . I  remember having a serious interest in one day donning the holy vestments .

After eight years of Catholic grade school (St. Theresa's) , I followed my three older siblings to Bishop McNamara high school , where I spent two years , until transferring to a public high school (Eastridge)  for the remaining two years .

Life was changing , and my interests and values were in flux .

After enrolling at Loyola University in Chicago during the fall of 1976 , I was convinced by the Dean Of Studies , that taking off from school and moving to California , would be a better option . I put my thumb out on Interstate #80 , and headed West !

 

{2. "Head west , young man"... the land of the mystics .} 

 

Arriving in Pacific Grove , California , was a welcomed shock . Life was noticeably different - right away .

Surrounded by the majestic mountains which meet the Pacific Ocean , was far more compelling than the sight of endless corn and bean fields on the flat Midwestern plains .

 The cultural differences provided an even greater contrast . The '60's culture of the 'Summer Of Love' ; Berkeley's  Haight Ashbury and the "Grateful Dead/surfer dude vibe", was instantly recognizable . The openness to all-things-spiritual was in the air .  

 As time went by  , on the Monterey Peninsula , I became closely associated with a mystical community of Catholics at the Carmelite Monastery off of Highway 1 , just south of Carmel . Nestled amidst the florid Juniper trees , the pounding waves of the Pacific Ocean provided the pulse for this surreal and poetic enclave . 

 Often , I would hitchhike in the morning from Pacific Grove to the Monastery - perhaps 10 miles -  followed by breakfast in Carmel with Catholic friends . a good way to kick off the otherwise mundane events of work and study (Monterey Peninsula College) .

 This period saw my interest in reading Catholic mystics accelerate (St. Theresa of Avila ; St. John Of The Cross ; Thomas A Kempis ; The Desert Fathers - Philokalia ; and everything written by Trappist monk Thomas Merton ) . 

 Through these friends , I was directed to a bookstore in Carmel , owned by the sister of a monk from the Immaculate Heart Hermitage in Big Sur , California ; some 56 miles south of Carmel on the majestic Coastal route (Highway 1) . 

 My fascination was instantly piqued , and I arranged to go down for a "retreat" for three days , while contemplating the meaning of life , and my place in  it .

 {3. The climb to the Cloister ... to be a Benedictine .}

 Once again , I stuck my thumb out , and hitched a ride down the winding and spectacular Highway 1 to the 

 (Benedictine) Monastery known as 'New Camaldoli' ; the American branch of the Italian motherhouse .

 See the Monastery here : http://www.contemplation.com/

Getting out of the vehicle , I started climbing the access road 3.5 miles to the top , where it levels out , and the grounds of the Monastery are evident . Overlooking Santa Lucia Bay of the Pacific Ocean , one becomes instantly transfixed with the textures , sights , smells , and sounds  of one of the best meetings of land and sea in the world .  The peace I felt was other worldly .

It seemed , after several retreats in Big Sur , that this indeed was my calling. I phoned Father Louis at New Camaldoli , and arranged for a meeting with the Abbot Father Bruno ,  and Father Adam - who was the Novice Master in 1977 . It was as though the portals to heaven had swung wide open , and life would no longer be a question mark , but an answered prayer . I would be entering the Novitiate for the summer of 1977 .

It seemed as if the  collective thoughts of the Catholic saints and mystics I had  treasured , was now being realized for me . This was profoundly moving , and a cause for great joy and expectation .

As it turned out , the rhythm of monastic life was quite agreeable . Rising at 3:30 a.m. for morning prayer . Back at 6:00 a.m. for Mass , followed by breakfast and free time until 12:00 lunch . Then , four hours of work - whether in the garden ; cleaning rooms , in the kitchen , or cutting firewood (etc.) . The days had a definite pattern that provided stability .

What was intriguing was the manner of the older brethren and the conversations that took place , when time allowed . I was in awe of the rectitude they showed in their fastings and devotions , whether praying the rosary daily , or  incessantly (under the breath) repeating the 'Hesychyst prayer' from the Early Desert Fathers : "Lord Jesus , have mercy upon me a sinner" .

I wanted dearly to emulate their example . Some of them , like Father Bede , would go weeks without any human contact , because there is a housing area of "cells"  specifically for that on the eastern flanks of the grounds .

The isolation ; focus on prayer ; contemplation ; self denial by fasting or wearing uncomfortable items (hairshirts etc.) ; praying to the saints and the Virgin Mary for intercession ; the holy sacrifice of the Mass - were the heartbeat of this "spiritual factory" . 

As it turned out , Father Adam was headed to Italy for a meeting of all the Novice Masters and Abbots of the Camaldolese Order , at the end of the summer of 1977 . As such , he spoke with me about my future and recommended that I go back out in the "world" , and commit to vows later in life . Most of the monks  , over the years , made this decision in their late 20's , whereas , I had just turned 19 . I agreed that this made sense , and at the end of that summer , I headed back to Monterey , along with a short visit back to Illinois .

 {4. Re-entry to the "world" ... sort of .}

 Upon returning to the Monterey Peninsula , I joined the Oratorian community Of St. Philip Neri , where I stayed for nearly three years in a semi-monastic setting . Father Emeric Doman was its Rector , and I drove him each day to say Mass at the Navy Postgraduate School , among other parishes. Brother(s) Peter , Matthew, and Richard were all studying theology in Berkeley for the priesthood , and lived in quarters next  to mine .

See Oratorian Community here : https://www.facebook.com/pages/Oratorian-Community/118167334866926

This is when , for two years , I taught the high school Confirmation/Catechism class at St. Angela's Parish in Pacific Grove . The interaction was very invigorating , being around so many hopeful young people on their way to promising careers , soon to be in  the collegiate ranks .

See here : St. Angela Merici parish ; Pacific Grove , California :  http://www.stangelamericipacificgrove.org/about-st-angela-merici/ ...

 These were some of the best times of my life . I had great chats with these folks about so many burning issues , while majoring in philosophy at the  college . Frequently encounters in all manner of spiritual dialogue , was a daily expectation . The challenges were many , and the responses varied while applying the maxim :  "why do you believe that to be true ?". Truth continued to sort out the winds of doctrine , circulating at a fever pitch .

Around this time (1980)  , I had developed a friendship with several "evangelical bible believers", who introduced me to some rather startling information - speaking of challenges . They were quite friendly and engaging . I was invited to their homes for dinner and bible study where the conversations became more specific . What they pointed out , was that salvation had nothing to do with belonging to an organization , but a personal relationship with Jesus , as found in the bible . I did not fully grasp what this meant , but it opened another door of curiosity .

Later , other areas of doctrine were being questioned by my "Jesus freak" friends . This was a time of great unrest and discomfort for me . All that I thought I believed , was now under close scrutiny . I felt like I was on the defensive , and my answers were getting harder to summon .

{5.  Grace breaks through .}

 Soon thereafter , it became evident that the bible was clear about this "personal relationship thing" , and that it truly is a matter of believing , as opposed to belonging to an Institution or outward Organization . I did not really grasp all the implications of this world changing realization , but a step toward what I perceived of as freedom , was clearly taken .

Shortly thereafter , in 1980 , I left the Oratorian Community and moved outside where I lived in makeshift tents on the beach (Spanish Bay in Pacific Grove/Pebble Beach) , and forested areas near Carmel , for nearly  11 years . It seemed as though I was living in a John Steinback novel . In fact , this was where Steinbeck used to hang out with friends while writing books like 'Cannery Row' . The pounding tones of the surf , and the invigorating odors of the sea breeze , lent an air of  tranquility that helped in working through the issues I was confronting .

Through the '80's , I became involved in Classical music as a vocal performer in ensembles , and as a soloist   in the Carmel Bach Festival ; the Monterey Symphony ; Pro Musica of Utah (Salt Lake City) ; Camerata Singers of Salinas ; and as  a founding member of I Cantori Di Carmel . These were days filled with the glories of sharing in some of the greatest artistic expressions ever authored , and the camaraderie among fellow participants .

As well , I became heavily involved in the political arena . I ran against Clint Eastwood for mayor of Carmel in '86 ; again in '88 ; and several other offices on the Monterey Peninsula  (along with a couple in Siskiyou County (Mount Shasta)  , California ('92-'98) .

 Along with those engagements , there came a developing sense of spiritual/worldview refinement . I was attending Calvary Chapel in Pacific Grove , and had several friends there who proved helpful in answering crucial questions . 

{6. Clarifying Grace .}

 A lingering question was : how does anyone know that they are saved ? I was finding the answer to this question quite elusive . My question became : how do you KNOW that you know ? 

 I was persuaded that John 3:16 was plain enough to answer that , though there were friends who believed that one could "lose salvation" through bad behavior , or  by way of "apostasy/falling away" . Or , there were those who held that lots of sin/"bad fruit" would surely indicate that someone was unsaved , and that they were not somehow one of God's "elect" . These were the conflicting opinions I was finding within "evangelicalism" .

 During the late '80's I would listen to Christian radio throughout the day , and would practically set my clock by Dr. Walter Martin's apologetic show 'The Bible Answer Man' . Reading apologetic texts from he (and others from the Christian Research Institute)  , along with all things written by  Dr. Norman Geisler and Dr. Francis Schaeffer - became the daily rhythm that explained so much of the enduring "why's" of this life . This , coupled with majoring in Philosophy in college , underscored a continuing thirst to give reasons for "why I believe WHAT I believe" . In short , it provided the mechanics to wade through all the competing winds of doctrinal truth claims . 

 Going back to college in '90 at Eastern Mennonite U. (Harrisonburg , VA.) , was an experiment on several levels . I had become influenced heavily by the pacifist writings of Leo Tolstoy , that led to an interest in the Amish/Mennonite worldview . In taking an old Testament course from a Princeton Phd. professor , who held to the view that the bible was NOT - in fact -   historical , my views sharpened with respect to Mennonite theology , and led to an in depth appraisal of their doctrine concerning pacifism . And , most importantly - justification/salvation .

 On both counts , I became persuaded that neither view held up to biblical scrutiny . After one semester in the books  , it was "back to California", once again .

 {6. Northbound - freedom bound in Mt. Shasta/Weed .}

 Shortly thereafter , it became clear that it was time to head for other environs . I had developed a keen interest in wilderness trekking while frequently exploring the Los Padres National Forest near Big Sur , California . Looking at the maps of the Mount Shasta/Weed area , and being interested in attending Weed's College of the Siskiyous , it seemed agreeable to my growing disenchantment with the $ high rollin'/overly  commercialized/overdeveloped California "dream" .

  Having been through the Weed area before , I recalled how easy it was to feel anonymous there , being surrounded by boundless acres of timber , trails and peaks . This seemed the perfect remedy for disillusion .

1992 would be another turning point . My sense of freedom was growing . Behind me lay a series of events that led to an ever increasing desire to clarify that liberty . 

 Going to the Weed Berean church , along with small group  bible studies , widened the circle of friends while living there from '92 until '99 . This was an era marked by clarification of life's most important question : what must I do to be saved?

 Just prior to this span , Dr. John MacArthur's book 'The Gospel According To Jesus', hit the shelves . I was familiar with his radio broadcast 'Grace To You' , which aired daily on the Redding , Ca. Christian radio station . A friend from the church had a copy , and another book with a competing viewpoint titled 'Absolutely Free' , by Dr. Zane Hodges .

 {7. Center of the dartboard .}

 It was instantly evident that this issue - justification by faith - was indeed the center of the dartboard . In reading through both views , I was struck with how Hodge's view seems so easy to parallel with scripture , which so clearly affirms assurance of eternal life as a present possession . MacArthur's view seemed to suspend any such certainty , and made living the Christian life a constant guessing game . His popularization of "Lordship Salvation" blurred the distinction between justification and sanctification , and turned a once-in-a-moment event of believing , into a process known as 'discipleship' . Some of the finer points of this issue awaited further refinement , but the door to the heart of truth was opened .

 After commercial fishing out of Seward Alaska in '94 , I returned to the Weed/Mt. Shasta area and finished off studies at College Of The Siskiyous in late May of '95 . Then it was time to hike the Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada - a 2,750 mile trek through the mountains and wilderness stretches in California , Oregon , and Washington . This would take 134 days to complete , and was  a profound life - changer  .

 Nearing the conclusion , between Stehekin Wash. and Rainy Pass (Wash Hwy. 20) , a 25 mile stretch , I encountered eight bears in one day ; seven blacks , and one Grizzly . One was a momma black and her cub , and I was in between them ... not exactly a desirable scenario ! But , she let me go , which explains why I'm still writing this !

There were so many invaluable encounters with people on the trail , often discussing worldview issues and what was most meaningful in their lives . Well over 90% of them came from a humanist and/or New Age perspective , with an implicit faith in some form of macro-Evolutionary Cosmology . Coming from a Creationist biblical worldview will often make one feel like a stranger in a strange land !

 This trek provided ample proof of the Lord's faithfulness in supplying comfort and wisdom in very challenging circumstances . It was so clear how there really is nothing to worry about , as I frequently read from Luke chapter 12 :

 "22Then, turning to his disciples, Jesus said, “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear. 23For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing. 24Look at the ravens. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds! 25Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? 26And if worry can’t accomplish a little thing like that, what’s the use of worrying over bigger things?

27“Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. 28And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?

29“And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things. 30These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. 31Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.

32“So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom" .

 Re-entry back into the work-a-day world after the trail was a difficult transition . Settling back in , and working as a tree faller while operating a firewood business , was truly satisfying in many ways . Being out there in the altitude of the mountains amongst the trees , vistas ,  and open spaces ; without time constraint or a boss for several years , rated at the top for the jobs I've had .

This time also saw tremendous growth in clarifying biblical truth , and honing in on the "center of the dartboard" .

{8. Back to the Bay ... Area.}  

 It was not long after returning to Weed , that a friend and his family whom I'd lived with were going to move to the bay area and he'd work with a Grading & Paving Co. out of Pleasanton , California . They would live in Tracy , just east over the Livermore grade . I was invited to join them , and decided that $27.00/hr. might not be a bad idea after all !

As it turned out , I stayed until mid '2000 . During this time , I had met a former Jesuit priest (18 years head of St. Joseph's parish , San Jose ,  Cal.) named Bob Bush , and his wife . After hearing them on a 50,000 watt Christian radio station in Oakdale , California (KCBC) , I phoned them to talk about Jesus , the bible , salvation , and having been a Benedictine monk . They lived near Oakdale , and invited me for a visit .

 They then invited me to participate with them on-air during their broadcasts . This would last for nearly two years . It was truly amazing to have so many callers understand that they too could have certainty of eternal life simply by believing Jesus' promise (John 6:47) . Much of the time , we would read straight out of the Catholic Catechism ; The Canons And decrees Of The Council Of Trent ; or Vatican Council 2  , to prove - from Official Catholic sources - what they taught about authority  , tradition , sin , salvation/justification, purgatory , indulgences (etc.) . In comparing tradition with the bible , some were persuaded that the two were irreconcilable .

 Once again , the operative principle is that the bible alone is the authority , and if anything contradicts what it says , "anything" must go - not the reverse .

 The message that grace is unmerited favor and cannot be earned , was received by some . I found tremendous hunger in more than a few of the callers .  I look back fondly on those days , as a profitable venue for bringing people out of bondage to works righteousness , and their uncertainty of salvation . 

 My love for Roman Catholics continues to be deep . Echoing the Apostle Paul : "I tell the truth in Christ, I am not lying, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Spirit,   that I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart.   For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren...' (Romans 9:1-3) ; and : "What shall we say then? That Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness of faith;   but Israel, pursuing the law of righteousness, has not attained to the law of righteousness. Why? Because they did not seek it by faith, but as it were, by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumbling stone.  As it is written: “Behold, I lay in Zion a stumbling stone and rock of offense,
And whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame . Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be saved.   For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge.   For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and seeking to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted to the righteousness of God.  For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes" (Romans 9:30-10:4)" .

 {9. Clarifying Calvinism.}

 After  Y2K passed , life in the Bay Area for me was coming to a close . It was also becoming evident that people within the 'Ex-Catholics For Christ Conferences' community - including Bob Bush , Dr. John MacArthur , Dave Hunt & the Berean Call , and many other ex-priests and nuns - had sharp disagreements about what the "center of the dartboard"  was .

 In studying the history  of  Calvinism at that time , particularly  Dr. Laurence Vance's 'The Other Side Of Calvinism' , it was clear that those who promoted a ..."you can't be saved if you have bad fruit (works) in your life" view , were tied to this 5 point Calvinist system . Dr. R.C. Sproul , Dr. James White , Dr. John Gerstner et al ,were some of the most eloquent apologists for that position , and had a tremendous sway over many friends .

Their position reduced to : you CANNOT be certain that you are one of God's secret and unknowable "elect" , because you must persevere till the end of your life in faith and good works to "prove" it .

 As well , there were several - including Bob Bush & his wife - who believed you could "lose your salvation" .  This has been termed the "Arminian" position , though it is found in belief systems unattached to that tradition .

It seemed to me that either way , Calvinist or Arminian , one could not be sure  of what Jesus had so clearly guaranteed . In the end , either way , one would be in doubt of salvation until death . Both were looking at  performance(works) instead of looking to Jesus for what He certifies . Again , Jesus' words in the bible could not be reconciled with either view ( John 3:16,5:24,6:47,11:17-27,20:31 etc.) . 

Yet again , the bible alone is the authority . Not any institution , tradition , or person .

 A book I read , at that time , sharpened the focus on this all important issue . Dr. Bob Wilkin's "Confident in Christ" was a further elaboration on Dr. Zane Hodges "Absolutely Free", written more than 10 years earlier . Written in an easy-to-understand fashion , this book crystallized and articulated all that seemed to be on my plate , at precisely the right time . Wilkin's website at www.faithalone.org became my daily "pilgrimage" , as I would copy all the journal articles before leaving the library . His subsequent books 'Secure And Sure', and 'Road To Reward' (and 'The Ten Most Misunderstood words In The Bible', which I have not yet read), remain invaluable resources in understanding the freedom and liberty that  salvation by grace through faith connotes . 

Over these books , and what they articulate - that certainty of eternal life IS the good news - a parting of the ways happened with many friends and associates , some of whom I'd known for many years . Jesus made it clear that He and His word are to be valued above all allegiances in this world , and that division based on truth is imperative (Matthew 10) . 

 To this day , I am not at all surprised that the majority have never been right about what matters most : truth . And in this case , the truth of everlasting life .

 {10. North to Wahington ; Peru ; Marriage/Family Life}

 As it turned out , I moved to Anacortes , Washington in 2001 and have done road construction ; worked as a scaffold erector in the refineries ; worked at Boeing in Everett ;  and  a flagger on the highways .

 In 2003 & in 2005, I was able to hike the Continental Divide Trail (3,100 miles) from above Glacier Natl. Park , Montana/Canada , to the Mexican border at Columbus , New Mexico . In '05 , it was a benefit for the Crisis Pregnancy Center in Salida , Colorado . Both treks took 102 days to complete , again providing incalculable moments to treasure . God's handiwork (creation) is the greatest art form and never fails to challenge point to the One who  !

Since then , I was tremendously privileged to mountaineer and trek in Peru , Chile , Bolivia , and Argentina in 2007. Twice more to Peru involved meeting my wife (Vanessa) , and returning with her in 2008 . We now have two sons : Solomon Jehoshua (age 5) ; and Josiah Hezekiah (age 3) . Her family continues to reside in an eastern district of Lima  (La Molina)  , Peru's capital . In a better world , we would live six months there ... during their summer , of course !

We continue to live twenty miles from Anacortes , in Sedro Woolley , Washington - five miles east of I-5 on the way to the glorious North Cascades .

 {11. In Conclusion}

Above all , the journey called "life"  takes all sorts of twists and turns , where each of us walks a slightly different trail . What remains true for all is that everything in this world changes and cannot afford certainty . Interestingly , we measure ourselves , and others , against the backdrop of "achievement", thereby hoping to find and project some form of "identity".

Yet , these phenomena are subject to the modulations of circumstance .

  In sum , things that change cannot give certainty .  Only the Promise of the One who cannot lie , nor change , gives such assurance . 

While at the tomb of Lazarus (John 11:17-27)  , His beloved friend , Jesus clearly affirmed the certainty of eternal life to all who are persuaded that He will give it to them , by believing in Him for it :

 " So when Jesus came, He found that he had already been in the tomb four days.   Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, about two miles away.  And many of the Jews had joined the women around Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother.

 Now Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met Him, but Mary was sitting in the house.   Now Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.   But even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You.”
 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”
 Martha said to Him, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.”
 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.  And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?”
 She said to Him, “Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”

He did not lie to Martha and Mary . He did not lie to me .

 He took me from climbing the mountains of changing works (the monastery/religiosity)  , to the solid rock of unmerited favor . There is no rest while climbing .

 His guarantee is the only thing that is certain , and gives eternal rest ... without cost . 

Mission Trip Report from the Amazons in Peru.

The Plan!  (for pictures go to https://peruepic.shutterfly.com/pictures/1197)

When I left on this trip to Peru, and knowing that the final week was going to be focused on “the mission trip” I knew that I wanted to make the whole 6 weeks my mission. 

I had brought a case of Spanish Gospels of John from livingwater.org as well as some ones in English and was determined to give them all out during my time there.  Little did I Know that I was going to wish I had more.  I gave them out to almost all of my taxi drivers. “tienes aqua viva?” and I would give them to someone.  If I felt the Holy Spirit bring it to my mind with someone, I tried to respond immediately.  Everyone I gave it to seemed excited and pleased I offered it.  I would sometimes tell them a little more if they seemed to question what it was.  I told them it was free, and so was the Aqua Viva.   

               Arequipa -  A few that stand out.  While we were in Arequipa in a historical area for shopping I saw a guy sitting behind his wares looking extremely bored.  I talked with him for a moment and offered him the Gospel. He took it, and when I went by again 30 minutes later he was engrossed in it.  A woman my wife bought some jewelry from was very friendly, and we built up a relationship with her because of our repeated purchases.  I gave one to Marisa to give to her, and when she did, she seemed very happy, but even more so the next day.  She was excited and said she had aqua viva and had given it to her husband to read as well. 

               Another time I was with a Taxi driver who I was unable to get to open up in conversation.  He stayed glum the entire trip, but as I left I felt like I needed to give him one anyway.  I leaned back towards the car and handed him the book saying “quieres aqua viva?” or do you want living water?  He looked at me funny and I told him it was about Jesus Christ and he gave me a grin and said thank you.  Another time we were in a Taxi with 2 brothers, one of whom was training to be a taxi driver.  That was interesting, but they were happy to get the gospels as well.  

               I walked by a security guard in front of a casino for a few days near where we stayed for the first week.  One time I went by, and felt like I should give him one.  He took it gladly, and we spoke about it for a few minutes before I moved on.  Close to this was a restaurant called Crepisimos where we ate several mornings and got to know the morning crew.  They were happy to get the gospels as well.

               Another day, we took a bus on a 2 hour trip to some hot springs.  These were the inexpensive bus’s where they would get packed, and I only had about 5 with me.  I would sit there practicing reading them ni Spanish and catch people reading over my shoulder.  Once I saw they were interested I would offer them one which they took gladly.  I ran out quickly.

Virtually all of my wife’s uncles and aunts, as well as cousins got them, and I was able to speak to a relative in depth about Christ.  They are Mormon, so please continue to pray for them.  He is willing to discuss, but fell back into his testimony as a defense against what God’s word said.  I also gave one to my wife’s 95 year old grandmother who said she would read it with her reading glasses.  I have shared Christ and gospels with her previously.

Chimbote and Chiclayo – I spoke with an Indian looking gentleman who was from British Guyana in a hotel lobby in Chiclayo.  We spoke for a few minutes and he asked why I was there so I mentioned a mission trip.  He was concerned if we were just here to talk or to help, and I explained some.  He was a Muslim, but when I offered him the words of Jesus Christ who Mohammed said was a prophet, he accepted with a thank you. He spoke fluent English as well as a few other languages so he got one in English.

At my Wife’s well to do uncles factory, the security, one janitor, and two secretaries got them as well.  They work with my wife’s dad and were excited to meet us and were happy to receive them.  

A few days later, my wife’s Uncle took us to see another of his houses where he has vineyards and an interesting discussion came about.  My mother-in-law was with my wife and I as well as Kianna and one of my wife’s cousin.  My mother-in-law we have spoken to and prayed for years, as she was raised Catholic and was converted to Mormonism before coming to the U.S.  Our upcoming mission came up in conversation, and my wife’s Catholic uncle who has many people working for him began to discuss how we just need to follow John the Baptists example.  My wife and I tried to get a few words in, but he is used to being listened to.  I finally was able to quote Jn 6:47 to him and told him it was important what Jesus said.  My wife reiterated, and then, my mother in law said “its not what you do, you just have to believe in God”  AWESOME.  Not quite theologically correct, but it sounds like she finally has it! J   My wife’s uncle was not interested in continuing the conversation at that time, and we did not want to be pushy, but we will continue praying.

Picture of a llama.. actually a river from the plane on the way to Pullcalpa from Lima.

Sunday - Day 1 – We got up early to get on the plane and fly to the Amazons! It was exciting as we arrived in Pucallpa.  We got on the bus to head to a Church that supports the mission to the Shipobo people and sung a few songs with them before heading down to the boat. I purchased some Chirimoya (an exotic fruit) for some of my fellow missionaries and began to get to know them.  As I found out later, we have an awesome group of excited believers! Once on the boat, I began to try and get to know some of the crew and gave out some more gospels of John.  You can see the Evangelista on the left side.  David and Gelyn were the two security guard used for the “prevention” of any issues with “river pirates”  once or twice they showed a gun, and one evening fired a warning shot, but that was all that was necessary.  I gave them both Gospels of John and spoke to them briefly.  Gelyn was an agnostic and David was more open.  We would talk more over the coming week.  

 You can see below that the sunsets on the river are beautiful.  When we arrived at the village, they were waiting for us even though it was late and had a ceremony to do so.  (please note that the actions on given days are all based on my recollection and could be slightly off. )

  Some of the children who I hope you will keep in prayer were, Renaeln 11, Laison 1, Anderson 10, Raul 11, Leibis 11, and Ken 8.

Monday – Day 2 – We got up early and got started moving supplies off the boat so we could start working on the church.  My focus was building relationships with people and getting some work done.  The Indians were very friendly and open and appreciated us being there.  The children loved Kianna and it was seldom that you saw her without at least 3 or 4 following her around.

Tuesday - Day 3 – Besides working on the church, I spent some time talking to some older men of the village who spoke some Spanish.  Javier, Pedro and Caleb who was a bit younger.  They received Gospels of John with excitement.  I gave a Gospel to a man named Leoncio and he sat and read it for most of the morning.  Later in the morning, the boat Captain, Alvaro came running up to me. He was very excited after reading the Gospel of John the Monday night.  He said in Spanish “this book is very good!  Now I know what I have and now I have more love for God!  I feel so much love!”  He gave me a hug and left with a very light step.  Having assurance is amazing!  We had a time of fellowship in the church and spent time with the kids letting them color and I did a gospel presentation using an evangicube for about 40 children!  All of the children affirmed that they believed in Jesus Christ at the end of it.  We ended with some songs and games.  

Wednesday – Day 4 – Most of the Gospels of John went to adults who had learned to read Spanish, however I found some children, Lenner  11 and Lacy 13 who said they knew how to read as well.  I tested them and after they read me a few verses each, they both got Gospels of John.  More work on the church, and I spent time with the children teaching them games I had learned in Awana.  They did not want me to stop!  That evening there were a few girls hanging around the boat, and I had a finger flashlight they all wanted.  I told them whoever could quote John 3:16 could have it.  After a few tries, a teenager and his girl friend who were close by apparently were listening in, and the boy quoted it verbatim.  I gave him the light which quickly ended up in the girls hand. J When I got back to the boat, I saw another of the boat employees, Miguel on the deck reading the gospel of John I had given to him a few days earlier.

Thursday – Day 5 – I was speaking to David, and Gelyn with another villager who was a Christian and on fire for Christ, and during the conversation Gelyn stated he had become a Christian! Gelyn was the professed Agnostic from day one.  He has my email and I hope we communicate further.  Please pray for him, that if he has already believed, that he grows, and if not, that he continues to read the Gospel of John.  I was not sure if he did so out of pressure because of the conversation and the villager or not. Gelyn is the guy in the green shirt.  This was the last day at the village.  I said good by to Saibel 10 and Seti her 11 month old sister that she carried everywhere with her.  It was amazing to see how responsible these young girls were, and how seldom any of them cried or complained.  The baby’s as well.  We took a quick trek up the river to another village as well and gave them some shoes, knives, sewing materials, clothes, stuffed animals etc.  I handed out a couple Gospels of John and shared Christ with a few teenagers standing around.  Before we left Nueva Palestina, the village again gathered for a farewell ceremony that made most of us cry and said goodbye to us.  I don’t have pictures because they involved us with them.

The Boat trip back - I spent most of the boat trip back sitting with Pastor Abelardo which is one of the missionaries that risks his life traveling to these villages and teaching and making inroads into new villages.  I asked him if he had any passages in scripture that were difficult to understand or questions he had problems answering.  He seemed to have a pretty good understanding of God’s grace, but did ask me to explain about the Sabbath and if it was for us today.  I explained that it was part of the Law that we were freed from, and that Sunday worship was different and spent some time in Galatians until he was satisfied.  He was very pleased and we exchanged email for further discussions.  He asked for prayer for his son Eli who has a disease that they have not been able to diagnose and that 2 of his other children has already died from. 

I tried to give you the names of those who I had dealt with whenever I could so that if you wish, you can pray for them specifically.  Your prayers and support are appreciated and if you want further details, please feel free to write, call or email me.  951-256-4579. 

Love in Christ

Trent Hilderbrand  (if you would like an emailed copy with pictures, please give me your email)