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Christian Living in November

The holidays of America and most of Western civilization are the result of Christian influence and origin. As some of the most important holidays in America and throughout the world are celebrated at the end of the year, it is appropriate to rehearse the significance of their Christian beginnings. While secularists, atheists, agnostics, "free thinkers," and other forms of irreligion attempt to rob Christians of the heritage they have given to the world, followers of Christ must be more deeply resolved not to allow this group of antagonists to bully Christians and the world into submission.As the calendar year draws to an end, many opportunities for meaningful Christian celebration should not be overlooked. In America, Christians should make every effort to capitalize on the Christian heritage bequeathed to the nation by our forefathers—especially Christian Heritage Week, Bible Sunday, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, not to mention lesser-known observances. Important historical and spiritual events should not be permitted to lapse without being duly noted an observed by Christians—whether in the home, business, or local congregation. Contents In addition to the highlights of this month that are discussed below, additional subjects of interest regarding our Christian heritage are presented online, where they are arranged according to dates of occurrence—with particular attention being given to the influence Christianity has exercised upon the origin of America. The online calendar where these articles are arranged is under continual development with new articles appearing as they become available. By clicking the message box below, readers will navigate to the present month under consideration. The last four months of our year, September, October, November and December, all receive their names from Latin numerical terms. Prior to the introduction of January and February into our calendar system, the old Roman calendar employed a calendar of only ten months. Latin numbers were given to these months: septem, (meaning seven) became September; octem, (meaning eight) became October; novem (meaning nine) became November; decem (meaning ten) became December. When January and February were added to the ten-month calendar to become our twelve-month calendar, these latter four months retained their Latin names.In the Julian and Gregorian Calendars, November is the eleventh month of the year. November in the Northern Hemisphere is one of the months of autumn, but in the Southern Hemisphere it is the seasonal equivalent of May in the Northern Hemisphere and vice versa.The official birth flowers of November are the chrysanthemum and peony. The chrysanthemum were first cultivated in China during the 15th century BC as a flowering herb and reached the Western world during the 17th century. Today, it is estimated that more than 20,000 varieties of chrysanthemums exist and because of their popularity are known as the “Queen of Fall Flowers”. They are believed to symbolize friendship and convey well-wishes.Observance: Prior to Election DayWhile the overwhelming majority of Americans are not pastors or church leaders, all Christians should be aware of the active role pastors played in early America to bring about the birth of the nation. America was founded on Christian biblical principles, but for many years, denominational leaders have failed to encourage the clergy and local churches to speak out on political issues. Fear of reprisal from the IRS has enslaved many denominational leaders to the notion that Christians should not speak out concerning the political direction of the nation. But early American ecclesiastical leaders were not timid about proclaiming the fact that Scripture teaches that the reign of Christ should be extended to the entire world, including politics.Pastors are encouraged to invited local politicians to an Election-Day Service to remind them of their duties under God and their responsibility to the Christian legal foundation of America. King George III reigned over the British Empire at the time of the American Revolution. He realized what Americans have forgotten. King George called the Revolution in America a "Black-robe Rebellion" because many pastors wore black clerical attire into their pulpits and preached that if the King and the English Parliament would not abide by the Law of God, the citizens had a right to throw off the yoke of tyranny. Pastors laid the theological foundation for the greatest nation in the history of the world, and if America is to remain great, pastors and church leaders will have to take a stand as courageous as our spiritual forefathers.The first Tuesday in November is "Election Day." Below are some valuable resources for Christians and church leaders with regard to this important opportunity to help Christianize our nation:American Family Association: Christian Coalition: Eagle Forum: Million Voices: WallBuilders: and Remembrance: Congressional Spiritual Proclamations in MarchAmong the thousands of documents and events that demonstrate America's Christian origin are the sixteen spiritual proclamations issues by Congress during the American Revolution. Following the pattern of fasting, praying, and offering of thanksgiving to God that was use in the New England Colonies, Congress asked the American states to fast and pray in the spring and offer prayer and thanksgiving in the fall of the year. States were asked to invite their citizens to cease their labors and observe the day as proscribed by Congress.The first of the sixteen spiritual proclamations was issued in late spring on June 7, 1775 and was a fasting and prayer proclamation. The sixteenth and last spiritual proclamation to be issued by Congress on August 3, 1784 was a thanksgiving proclamation.Congress issued two proclamations in the month of November during these years. The spiritual proclamation numbers, the dates they were issued, and the purpose for which they were issued are listed below:Proclamation #4 – November 1, 1777: ThanksgivingProclamation #6 – November 16, 1778: ThanksgivingObservance: On or prior to November 11In the United States, Veterans' Day is usually observed on November 11. If this date occurs on a Sunday, usually the following Monday is employed as the day of observance. If the eleventh should fall on a Saturday, it may be observed that day or the beginning of the following week.One of America's most decorated veterans was Sgt. Alvin York of Pall Mall, Tennessee. He was a deeply committed Christian who sought to live a sanctified Christian life as a member of the Churches of Christ in Christian Union (Circleville, Ohio). He was America's most highly decorated veteran of World War I.Observance: Sunday before to Saturday after ThanksgivingNational Bible Week begins the Sunday before Thanksgiving. That Sunday is designated as Bible Sunday. Because Bible Sunday immediately precedes Thanksgiving, it generally receives little if any attention. Therefore, it is suggested that pastors and local churches observe Bible Sunday one Sunday earlier to call attention to Bible week and yet make allowance for attention to be given to Thanksgiving the Sunday before Thanksgiving. Observing Bible Sunday one week earlier will also allow pastors sufficient opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving the Sunday before this important holiday.One of the most influential organizations used of the Lord to distribute Bibles around the world has been The Gideons International. Gideons are laymen and women who give sacrificially of themselves and their personal resources to advance the kingdom of Christ. It is safe to make the generalization that no other Bible-distributing organization contributes as much to the local churches throughout America and many parts of the world as does The Gideons International. Usually, local camps or organized groups of Gideons have speakers available to speak at local churches. In many cases, arrangements may be made with local Gideons for one of their speakers to address a congregation, speaking for a small portion or the entire speaking-portion of the service. A love offering will be deeply appreciated and used wisely to continue to place Bibles in hotels, hospitals, and other places where souls are in need of Jesus Christ. Please help the Gideons today!Observance: Week of ThanksgivingOn August 11, 1992, U. S. Representative for West Virginia's third congressional district, Mr. Nick Joe Rahall II, rose to address his colleagues with an important request:Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce a House joint resolution calling for the designation of Thanksgiving week as "America's Christian Heritage Week." This year, the proclamation would cover the week of November 22 through November 28. It proclaims that America does, indeed, have a Christian heritage.This Democratic Representative went on to lament the repression of the Christian Faith in the nation it had birthed, but through his efforts, Congress placed its stamp of approval upon Mr. Rahall's motion. For his sincere efforts, Representative Rahall is to be highly commended.Tragically, Christians throughout America have failed to capitalize on what Congress did in 1992. Denominational leaders have failed to move the interests of Christ forward even on those very rare occasions when Congress hands them a gift such as this. For more than twenty years, this opportunity has lacked wide-scale support from Christians. It is no wonder that liberal main-line denominations have treated it with disdain, but it is inexcusable that Bible-believing denominations have failed to arm their members with the resources necessary to help stem the tide of spiritual and moral decay in our nation. Until Christian leaders begin to focus on the work to which Christ has called them, and not merely their own parochial passions, the Church in America will continue its decline.God give us leaders who will undertake the cause of Jesus Christ!Christians must become involved in the opportunity to remind the nation of our Christian heritage. Mr. Bruce Barilla has maintained a website encouraging pastors and the laity to become involved in this effort. Educational, political, and ecclesiastical leaders in every sphere of responsibility should be encouraged to participate. You may find Mr. Barilla at and other resources by searching the web. At the request of Christian Heritage Fellowship (2012), Mr. Barilla wrote to encourage Christians to become involved in this important opportunity:I encourage ministers, preachers, pastors/elders alike to participate in celebrating America's Christian Heritage Week at the local, state and national level with relevant Sunday school lessons, sermons, reading of proclamations, youth programs, patriotic song services and prayer meetings. Commemorating America's Christian heritage provides an opportunity for those choosing to participate to thank God for His 'Blessings of Liberty,' to ask His help to 'insure domestic Tranquility' and to recognize our national need and 'unalienable Rights' in reaffirming our 'reliance on the Protection of Divine Providence' for keeping our families secure, communities safe and America a 'Free and Independent' 'one Nation, under God.' As President Woodrow Wilson stated, "A nation which does not remember what it was yesterday, does not know what it is today, nor what it is trying to do. We are trying to do a futile thing if we do not know where we came from or what we have been about...."Observance: First or second Sunday of NovemberThe International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church is held in early November. In Western Christianity, the lives of Christians who have departed this world have been remembered in early November through "All Saints Day" and "All Souls Day." It is fitting that the modern Church set aside early November as a time to remember and pray for fellow believers who are being persecuted around the world. Many Christians support this effort through the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (IDOP). Riding upon the shoulders of Darwinism, irreligious and secular governments around the world seek increasingly to flex their tyrannical muscles. Secular irreligious governments, unfettered by divine law, always establish man's hateful, intolerant laws. The twentieth century alone clearly demonstrates how irreligious Darwinian governments have slaughtered millions around the world. Because America's Founding Fathers believed human rights originate with God, it is not possible to be a Darwinist or Marxist and be a true American. Observance: Fourth Thursday of NovemberIn America, the Thanksgiving tradition is commonly traced to 1621, the year after the Pilgrim Fathers arrived in the New World. After arriving in present-day Massachusetts, the Pilgrims experienced an extremely difficult first winter in their new home. With the assistance of the Wampanoag Natives Indians, the Pilgrims enjoyed a bountiful harvest in 1621, and to celebrate God's goodness, the Pilgrims joined with Natives to celebrate. Though an annual Thanksgiving feast was not observed until the 1660s, subsequent Thanksgivings to 1621 were observed. In addition to feasts, the Pilgrims and Puritans, who followed to the New World, also observed seasons of fasting. This latter practice was used by civil leaders in the American Colonies for many years. President George Washington issued the First Presidential Thanksgiving Proclamation on October 3, 1789, establishing November 26, 1789 as a day of thanksgiving and prayer to "Almighty God" for His providential care of our fledgling nation.Observance: On or before November 30The Apostle Andrew, the brother of St. Peter, carried the Gospel to many Asiatic nations, beginning his missionary endeavors in the Provinces of Vithynia and Pontus on the southern shores of the Black Sea. It is believed that he subsequently traveled to the City of Byzantium where he established a church.In one of his missionary tours to Achaia (Greece), Andrew visited the city of Patras where his preaching and miracles drew many to Christ, including Maximilla, the wife of the Roman Proconsul, Aegeates. The Proconsul's own brother, Stratoklis, followed the example of his sister-in-law, Maximilla, and became a Christian as well. Andrew, realizing the sincerity of his faith consecrated Stratoklis to the office of Bishop of Patras. What followed this experience resulted in Andrew's martyrdom.Our suggested resources for the month of October address several subjects of importance. In addition to suggested timely reading materials, our occasional Heritage Hallmarks remind our readers of significant moments in the life of the Christian Church and American life. They are designed to reflect upon the remarkable heritage bequeathed to America and the world by the Christian Faith and seek to visualize important moments in history. Secular influence has removed important monuments of Christian influence, but our Heritage Hallmarks allow parents and grandparents the opportunity to remind succeeding generations of the glorious heritage of Christianity. For a list of additional materials available at our site, please click the following link: Our Resources.To speak intelligently to a believing and unbelieving world, Christians must not only be able to defend the truth associated with the lives of the virtuous, but must also be prepared to expose the facts concerning the villainous. For this reason, individuals and events that are both beneficial and malignant are noted below. Knowledge of the virtuous provides insight into how the believer should live, while examples of the villainous prepare believers to "give an answer" to every individual of how life should not be lived (1 Peter 3:15).November 1772: Samuel Adams initiated the formation of the Committees of Correspondence that was so vital to the development of American interests prior to and during the Revolutionary War. See our article: November 11, 1620: After more than two months at sea, the Pilgrims arrived at Cape Cod. November 14, 1915: Booker Taliaferro Washington (April 5, 1856 - November 14, 1915) was an African-American educator, author, orator, and advisor to presidents of the United States. Between 1890 and 1915, Washington was the dominant leader in the African-American community. For more information concerning his influence upon American education, see David Barton, Four Centuries of American Education, 41.November 15, 1794: John Knox Witherspoon (February 5, 1723 - November 15, 1794) was a Scots Presbyterian minister and a signatory of the United States Declaration of Independence as a representative of New Jersey. As president of the College of New Jersey (1768-94; now Princeton University), he trained many leaders of the early nation and was the only active clergyman and the only college president to sign the Declaration.November 22, 1963: Clive Staples Lewis (29 November 1898 - 22 November 1963), commonly called C. S. Lewis and known to his friends and family as "Jack", was a novelist, poet, academic, medievalist, literary critic, essayist, lay theologian, and Christian apologist. Born in Belfast, Ireland, he held academic positions at both Oxford University (Magdalen College), 1925-1954, and Cambridge University (Magdalene College), 1954-1963. November 25, 1748: Isaac Watts (17 July 1674 - 25 November 1748) was an English hymnwriter, theologian and logician. A prolific and popular hymnwriter, he was recognized as the "Father of English Hymnody", credited with some 750 hymns. Many of his hymns remain in use today, and have been translated into many languages.November 30, 1864: The Battle of Franklin, TN was waged between Union and Confederate forces on this date. Confederate chaplain Edward McKendree Bounds was engaged in the conflict and taken captive. E. M. Bounds is widely known for his writings on prayer. Though Dr. Schmidt's interest focuses upon the commercialization of American holidays, his book still reflects the Christian influence of American holidays: Leigh Eric Schmidt, Consumer Rites: The Buying and Selling of American Holidays (Princeton: Princeton University Press, 1995). Usually this is observed the first or second Sundays of November and dates of observance vary among organizations supporting this effort. See and . Bradford, Plymouth Settlement, 64. See John Woodbridge, More Than Conquerors: Portraits of Believers from All Walks of Life.Christian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Living in NovemberChristian Heritage Fellowship FacebookChristian Heritage Fellowship FacebookChristian Heritage Fellowship Facebook

The holidays of America and most of Western civilization are the result of Christian influence and origin. As some of the most important holidays in America and throughout the world are celebrated at

Dr. Stephen Flick | October 27, 2024 | Christian Calendar (Holidays)

Christian Living in October

Christian Living in October

By the time October arrives, many plans for the end-of-the-year activities are well underway or soon will be. No other season of the year provides as much opportunity for creating spiritual impressions upon young and old alike as do the closing months of the year. In contemporary society, Christians must conceive of ways to convey the glory of the gospel to a suspicious and cynical world. Often this task is complicated by the fact that America and other parts of the world are increasingly biblically illiterate and many audiences do not readily understand the allusions to Scriptural events and concepts. The end of the year affords sanctified creativity with many opportunities for Christian edification and proclamation, and it presents some of the most meaningful opportunities for appreciating our Christian heritage. As is the case on other occasions and for other events, October and the end of the calendar year offers Bible-believing Christians opportunities to correct errors and half-truths and set an agenda for Christian living that honors the Lord in every sphere of life.Christian Living October Table of Contents In addition to the highlights of this month that are discussed below, additional subjects of interest regarding our Christian heritage are presented online where they are arranged according to dates of occurrence with particular attention being given to the influence Christianity has exercised upon the origin of America. The online calendar where these articles are arranged is under continual development with new articles appearing as they become available. By clicking the message box below, readers will navigate to the present month under consideration.The month of October is the tenth month of the year in the Julian and Gregorian Calendars and one of seven months, each with a length of 31 days. In the evolution of the Western calendar, October was the eighth month in the old Roman Calendar, but when Julius Caesar introduced the Julian Calendar two months were inserted at the beginning of the year—January and February. "October" means "eighth month," but when the Julian Calendar inserted January and February, October (from the Latin "octo") receded to the tenth month but its name was not changed to reflect its new position in the calendar.In the Northern hemisphere, October is commonly associated with autumn, but in the Southern hemisphere, it is associated with spring where it is regarded as the seasonal equivalent to April in the Northern hemisphere, and vice versa.Observance: August through early OctoberDuring election cycles Christians should become actively involved in the political process. Unbelievers decide many elections simply because Christians refuse to be troubled by the simple process that is required to become politically active. Some of these same individuals contend that there should be a separation of the Church from political interests. But in siding with the liberal cause, they deny Jesus Christ his rightful rule over the world. As the Apostle Paul began to close his letter to the Christians in the city of Rome, he penned the following benediction, expressing his political teaching:Now to him that is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which has been kept in silence through times eternal, but now is manifested, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the eternal God, is made known unto all the nations so they might believe and obey Himллto the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory for ever. Amen. (Romans 16:25-27) As the Apostle Paul indicated, God intends that all people and that all "nations should believe and obey Him." No one can seriously regard the teaching of the Bible who denies that God has the right to rule every sphere of His creation.Pastors should encourage their congregations to actively engage in a voter registration program. For years, liberal churches have endeavored to elect politicians of similar social views. Conservative Christians have been far too slow to engage in this effort. One of the best sources for such endeavors is the conservative political organization known as "iVoter Guide." Pastors and church leaders will be guided through the establishment of a voter registration campaign! Take a look at their resources today!Observance: Second Monday of OctoberChristian explorer Christopher Columbus' arrival in the Americas on October 12, 1492, is annually remembered on the second Monday of October. After a long voyage at sea, Columbus set foot on land in the Bahamas and subsequently established Spanish rule in Hispaniola. Columbus' Journal of the First Voyage to America clearly demonstrates that the explorer saw his mission as one that was to win souls for Christ. Under Spanish control, however, Hispaniola was greatly exploited; yet, Columbus' original intent was not the exploitation of the native or the land. Rather, his motive was religious, as he related in his own words:Whereas, Most Christian, High, Excellent, and Powerful Princes, King and Queen of Spain and of the Islands of the Sea, our Sovereigns, this present year 1492, after your Highnesses had terminated the war with the Moors reigning in Europe, the same having been brought to an end in the great city of Granada, where on the second day of January, this present year, I saw the royal banners of your Highnesses planted by force of arms upon the towers of the Alhambra, which is the fortress of that city, and saw the Moorish king come out at the gate of the city and kiss the hands of your Highnesses, and of the Prince my Sovereign; and in the present month, in consequence of the information which I had given your Highnesses respecting the countries of India and of a Prince, called Great Can, which in our language signifies King of Kings, how, at many times he, and his predecessors had sent to Rome soliciting instructors who might teach him our holy faith, and the holy Father had never granted his request, whereby great numbers of people were lost, believing in idolatry and doctrines of perdition. Your Highnesses, as Catholic Christians, and princes who love and promote the holy Christian faith, and are enemies of the doctrine of Mahomet , and of all idolatry and heresy, determined to send me, Christopher Columbus, to the above-mentioned countries of India, to see the said princes, people, and territories, and to learn their disposition and the proper method of converting them to our holy faith; and furthermore directed that I should not proceed by land to the East, as is customary, but by a Westerly route, in which direction we have hitherto no certain evidence that any one has gone. So after having expelled the Jews from your dominions, your Highnesses, in the same month of January, ordered me to proceed with a sufficient armament to the said regions of India, and for that purpose granted me great favors, and ennobled me that thenceforth I might call myself Don, and be High Admiral of the Sea, and perpetual Viceroy and Governor in all the islands and continents which I might discover and acquire, or which may hereafter he discovered and acquired in the ocean; and that this dignity should be inherited by my eldest son, and thus descend from degree to degree forever. Hereupon I left the city of Granada, on Saturday, the twelfth day of May, 1492, and proceeded to Palos, a seaport, where I armed three vessels, very fit for such an enterprise, and having provided myself with abundance of stores and seamen, I set sail from the port, on Friday, the third of August, half an hour before sunrise, and steered for the Canary Islands of your Highnesses which are in the said ocean, thence to take my departure and proceed till I arrived at the Indies, and perform the embassy of your Highnesses to the Princes there, and discharge the orders given me. For this purpose I determined to keep an account of the voyage, and to write down punctually everything we performed or saw from day to day, as will hereafter appear. Moreover, Sovereign Princes, besides describing every night the occurrences of the day, and every day those of the preceding night, I intend to draw up a nautical chart, which shall contain the several parts of the ocean and land in their proper situations; and also to compose a book to represent the whole by picture with latitudes and longitudes, on all which accounts it behooves me to abstain from my sleep, and make many trials in navigation, which things will demand much labor.When Columbus first stepped on shore he christened the island San Salvador-meaning "Holy Savior"-and prayed: "O Lord, Almighty and everlasting God, by Thy holy Word Thou hast created the heaven, and the earth, and the sea; blessed and glorified by Thy name, and praised be Thy Majesty, which hath deigned to use us, Thy humble servants, that Thy holy Name may be proclaimed in this . . . part of the earth."The Christian influence upon Western civilization started with Columbus and continued through the Founding Fathers of the United States. Since the 1920s, secularists have derided, doubted, and denied this influence, but the historical facts demonstrate the Christian origin of America!Remembrance: Congressional Spiritual Proclamations in MarchAmong the thousands of documents and events that demonstrate America's Christian origin are the sixteen spiritual proclamations issues by Congress during the American Revolution. Following the pattern of fasting, praying, and offering of thanksgiving to God that was use in the New England Colonies, Congress asked the American states to fast and pray in the spring and offer prayer and thanksgiving in the fall of the year. States were asked to invite their citizens to cease their labors and observe the day as proscribed by Congress.The first of the sixteen spiritual proclamations was issued in late spring on June 7, 1775 and was a fasting and prayer proclamation. The sixteenth and last spiritual proclamation to be issued by Congress on August 3, 1784 was a thanksgiving proclamation.Congress issued the most number of proclamations in the month of March during these years and the second most number of spiritual proclamations was issued in the month of October—five in all. The spiritual proclamation numbers, the dates they were issued, and the purpose for which they were issued are listed below:Proclamation #8 – October 20, 1779: ThanksgivingProclamation #10 – October 18, 1780: ThanksgivingProclamation #12 – October 26, 1781: Thanksgiving—British SurrenderProclamation #14 – October 11, 1782: ThanksgivingProclamation #15 – October 18, 1783: ThanksgivingSuggested Observance: On or before October 28As the Apostles bore testimony to their faith in their Lord Jesus Christ through martyrdom, the Early Church began to observe days of remembrance for their ministries. Unfortunately, the Christian Church also began to practice hagiolatry or the worship of the saints. The pagan idea of prayer being offered to and for the dead was absorbed into the practice of many Christians. Though the Bible teaches that Christians should never pray or worship to anyone or anything other than God, there is an appropriate place in the life of the Christian Church to remember with appreciation the faithful Christian who have given their strength and lives for the advancement of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The lives of the Apostles Jude (also called Lebbaeus, Judas, Thaddaeus) and Simon the Zealot are both remembered on October 28.As is true of many of the Apostles, only faint evidence exists concerning the missionary efforts of St. Simon the Zealot. Though scholarly evidence for the ministry of the Apostle Simon outside of the New Testament is scarce, it is believed he labored in Palestine and may have labored together with the Apostle Jude in his evangelistic endeavors. An early Church historian claims that Simon was beheaded in Persia or shared the fate of other believers who were sawn to pieces as indicated in Hebrews 11. The shield that bears witness to his ministry contains a fish and the Scriptures, indicating he was a fisher of men through the proclamation of the Gospel.The Apostle Jude, reportedly having traveled with Simon, is also said to have ministered in various places. The date of his death and the exact circumstances which surrounded his martyrdom are unknown for certain. Having traveled with St. Simon, some have believed he was also martyred with his companion. The lives and ministries of the Apostles Jude and Simon are remembered annually on the same day, October 28.Suggested Observance: October and early NovemberThe Thanksgiving/Christmas seasons provide believers with an opportunity to cooperatively seek to meet the physical needs of the local community. One of the effective means of multiplying the efforts of individual believers or local churches is to join efforts with other local ministries. By uniting with Christian charitable institutions, believers' efforts are multiplied. Likewise, most churches do not have the resources to meet the numerous material needs of the communities that they serve. During these important seasons, joining forces with the Salvation Army or other Christian organizations enhances the gifts of individuals and churches and allows these organizations to serve more effectively.While individuals or families may adapt the following suggestions, local churches may benefit most significantly. Non-perishable charitable contributions may be received for cooperative ministry at two periods around the Thanksgiving/Christmas seasons—each of which may extend over a period from three to four weeks. The first period begins at the end of October and ends about a week before Thanksgiving. The second possible period begins following Thanksgiving and continues to about a week before Christmas. It should be noted that a period of about a week (or more) is necessary to get non-perishable goods to charitable agencies so those goods may be distributed in a timely manner.Note: To help provide for the material needs of the local community, local churches may enter into cooperative ministry with other Christian organizations throughout the entire year by contributing monthly to those organizations which are more qualified to meet the demands of such ministries. Requests for assistance that are made to the local church may be referred to such charitable ministries with the confidence that the local church is helping to meet these needs.At all times and in all ways, Christians should seek to redeem the elements of society and bring them in conformity to the will of God as revealed in his Word, the Bible. In various cultures, Christians have attempted to displace pagan celebrations and cultural observances because of their incompatibility with Christian worship and morality. In some cases, they met with success, but often pagan culture has diluted the richer and higher claims of the Gospel of Christ upon individuals and all society. The subject of Halloween is one area that for centuries has eluded the complete submission to the true character of Christ. It is easy for a vibrant Christian to over react against perceived illegitimate principles or practices, but a reaction seldom positions an ardent believer in favorable light with the Lord or those observing Christians' reactions. For this reason, believers should be provided with a biblical response to the pagan origin and practices that gave rise to observances such as Halloween.Observance: On or before October 31On October 31, 1517, Augustinian monk, Martin Luther, initiated the Protestant Reformation by nailing his Ninety-five Theses to the door of the castle church at Wittenberg, Germany. Previous attempts to reform the Roman Church had failed, and Rome was far from the evangelical truth that had birthed the Christian Church. Salvation was believed to be achieved through protracted self-effort rather than a vibrant transforming faith in Christ as the only Savior of the human race.This date should not be an occasion to merely rehearse differences of principles, but rather, the entire Church should celebrate this occasion when a significant portion of the Church returned to its biblical evangelical faith. Had the entire Church returned to a deep conviction of salvation by a living—not a dead or dormant—faith, the kingdom of Christ on earth would have been realized to a degree never previously realized.Part of the glorious heritage of the Christian Faith is the rise and progress of the Protestant Reformation. Because of it, the Western Church that descended from Rome would never be the same. Parents and grandparents should seek opportunity to introduce children and grandchildren to the heroes of this era of the Christian Church. Pastors and church leaders should be versed in the most basic details of the individuals and principles involved in the Protestant Reformation. Denominational and local leaders must help recapture a sense of the glory of the Church by studying and celebrating its heritage, and Reformation Sunday is one of those important occasions!Our suggested resources for the month of October address several subjects of importance. In addition to suggested timely reading materials, our occasional Heritage Hallmarks remind our readers of significant moments in the life of the Christian Church and American life. They are designed to reflect upon the remarkable heritage bequeathed to America and the world by the Christian Faith and seek to visualize important moments in history. Secular influence has removed important monuments of Christian influence, but our Heritage Hallmarks allow parents and grandparents the opportunity to remind succeeding generations of the glorious heritage of Christianity. For a list of additional materials available at our site, please click the following link: Our Resources.To speak intelligently to a believing and unbelieving world, Christians must not only be able to defend the truth associated with the lives of the virtuous, but must also be prepared to expose the facts concerning the villainous. For this reason, individuals and events that are both beneficial and malignant are noted below. Knowledge of the virtuous provides insight into how the believer should live, while examples of the villainous prepare believers to "give an answer" to every individual of how life should not be lived (1 Peter 3:15).October 3, 1789: On October 3, 1789, President George Washington issued, from the U.S. Capitol in New York City, the first Presidential Proclamation of a National Day of Thanksgiving and Prayer to Almighty God. What occasioned the Proclamation was the submission of the Bill of Rights by the first session of Congress. On September 25, 1789, the Bill of Rights were finalized by the first Congress and submitted to the states for ratification, which was finally accomplished on December 15, 1791. These ten amendments (Bill of Rights) further limited the power of the newly formed federal government over the authority of the state governments.October 9, 1747: David Brainerd (April 20, 1718-October 9, 1747) was an American missionary to the Native Americans who had a particularly fruitful ministry among the Delaware Indians of New Jersey. During his short life, he was beset by many difficulties. As a result, his biography has become a source of inspiration and encouragement to many Christians, including missionaries such as William Carey and Jim Elliot, and Brainerd's cousin, the Second Great Awakening evangelist James Brainerd Taylor (1801-1829).October 10, 732: The Battle of Tours (October 10, 732) also called the Battle of Poitiers. This battle represents the high water mark for Muslims in Europe. Since the lifetime of Muhammad, Muslims continued their crusades against Christians. Charles Martel halted their advance in Europe.October 10, 1788: The last session during which the Continental Congress succeeded in achieving a quorum. The Continental Congress passed its last act on this date; 1789, March 2: Last session of the Continental Congress at Fraunces Tavern is adjourned sine die. Philip Pell of New York was the sole member in attendance.October 10, 1958: George Bennard (February 4, 1873 - October 10, 1958) was an American hymn composer and preacher. He is best known for composing the famous hymn, "The Old Rugged Cross".October 26, 1751: Philip Doddridge DD (26 June 1702 - 26 October 1751) was an English Nonconformist leader, educator, and hymnwriter. The calendar that bears Julius Caesar's name (Julian Calendar) was adopted in 46 BC but did not take effect until the following year in 45 BC. Redacted American Standard Version. http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/source/columbus1.html Marshall and Manuel, Light and Glory, 41.Christian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Living OctoberChristian Heritage Fellowship FacebookChristian Heritage Fellowship FacebookChristian Heritage Fellowship Facebook

Dr. Stephen Flick | September 27, 2024 | Christian Living Articles

Christian Living in September

Christian Living in September

September offers many exciting opportunities for the expression of Christian living, some of which our readers may seek to employ in their homes, local churches and where appropriate, in their businesses. Of all that may be anticipated in the expression of our Christian faith in the month of September, renewed interest in Christian education should be a prominent focus. For many of us careful planning for Thanksgiving and Christmas is delayed too long and hasty efforts produce lackluster results, though grandma and grandpa would never admit it. Late summer and early fall is not too early to begin to give thoughtful reflection upon how we will express our Christian faith within our homes, churches, communities, businesses, and other opportunities as the year comes to a close. Remember, for decades the secularists have been removing Christian symbols from public view and as believers, we must seek to be creative in finding places to publicly express our faith.SeptemberTable of ContentsSeptemberThe term "September" is derived from Latin, the language of the Romans. In Latin, septem means "seven" while the closely related term septimus means "seventh." According to the Roman calendar, September was the seventh month of the year until 46 BC when the first month of the year was changed from March 1 (Kalendas Martius) to January 1 (Kalendas Januarius).According to the Julian and Gregorian Calendars, September is the ninth month of the year and one of four months with a length of 30 days. In the Northern Hemisphere, September is the seasonal equivalent of March in the Southern Hemisphere. The meteorological autumn in the Northern Hemisphere begins on September 1 while in the Southern Hemisphere, September 1 is the beginning of the meteorological spring. For Eastern Orthodox Christians the ecclesiastical year begins in September.The birthstone for the month of September is the sapphire and the birth flowers for September are three, including the forget-me-not, morning glory, and aster.In addition to the highlights of this month that are discussed below, additional subjects of interest regarding our Christian heritage are presented online where they are arranged according to dates of occurrence with particular attention being given to the influence Christianity has exercised upon the origin of America. The online calendar where these articles are arranged is under continual development with new articles appearing as they become available. By clicking the message box below, readers will navigate to the present month under consideration. Suggested observance: First weeks of January, May, and SeptemberChristians have observed periods of prayer and fasting as early as the era of the Apostles who, in turn. learned these spiritual disciplines from the Older Testament and the Hebrew tradition. To nurture and encourage the development of prayer, seasons of prayer may be observed within the family as well as the local church. Though a regular prayer life is encouraged within individual believers and their families, and weekly prayer and fasting is encouraged in the church, a periodic seasonal effort may be undertaken to sustain and further develop these habits. It was the custom of the Church in Early America (and the Continental and Congressional Congresses) to call for days of "public humiliation, fasting and prayer." To nurture a spirit of dependence upon the Lord, several seasons of prayer and fasting may be established in the calendar year. In America, the first week in January (after the Christmas holidays and the beginning of the year) the first week in May (which may include the last weekend in April and the week of National Day of Prayer) and the first week of September (the beginning of the new Sunday School year) provide good opportunities for more protracted efforts in the disciplines of prayer and fasting. During these weeks Christians may select at least one day (and more if possible) of the designated week for these spiritual disciplines. Christians in other nations may seek to identify other regular seasons more appropriate to their national and church life.Observance: August through early OctoberDuring election cycles Christians should become actively involved in the political process. Unbelievers decide many elections simply because Christians refuse to be troubled by the simple process that is required to become politically active. Some of these same individuals contend that there should be a separation of the Church from political interests. But in siding with the liberal cause, they deny Jesus Christ his rightful rule over the world. As the Apostle Paul began to close his letter to the Christians in the city of Rome, he penned the following benediction, expressing his political teaching:Now to him that is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which has been kept in silence through times eternal but now is manifested, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the eternal God, is made known unto all the nations so they might believe and obey Him, to the only wise God through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory for ever. Amen. (Romans 16:25-27)

Dr. Stephen Flick | August 28, 2024 | Christian Living Articles

Christian Living in August

Christian Living in August

Whereas the "dog days of summer" in the Northern Hemisphere begin in early July, they conclude prior to the end of the second week of August.

Dr. Stephen Flick | July 28, 2024 | August

Christian Living in July

Christian Living in July

Throughout the summer months, families are preoccupied with various activities that are often unique to this season of the year. Family vacations, church camp, and other activities provide materials from which family and personal memories are made. For those of us who are privileged to regularly share in a good, summer family church camp, meeting with the Lord and cherished friends for a few days of spiritual retreat is eagerly anticipated. Lamentably, too many times the ministry of the local church slows during the summer because the church deliberately plans not to minister. If the people of God are willing to invest the effort, every season of the year may be filled with significance, providing succeeding generations with the memories of Christ-centered and Spirit-filled Christian living.Christian Living in JulyTable of ContentsOriginally, the fifth month of the Roman calendar was known as Quintilus. Following the assassination of Julius Caesar, it was changed to July in honor of the fallen Roman statesman. In the Julian and Gregorian Calendars, July is the seventh month of the year and one of the seven months with 31 days. Since it is the second month of summer in the Northern hemisphere it is, on average, the warmest month of the year. However, in the Southern hemisphere, it is the second month of winter and, consequently is the coldest month of the year. Christian Living in JulyThe birthstone of July is the ruby which symbolizes contentment, and the birth flowers of the month are White Water Lily and Larkspur.In addition to the highlights of this month that are discussed below, additional subjects of interest regarding our Christian heritage are presented online, where they are arranged according to dates of occurrence—with particular attention being given to the influence Christianity has exercised upon the origin of America. The online calendar where these articles are arranged is under continual development with new articles appearing as they become available. By clicking the message box below, readers will navigate to the present month under consideration. Observance: Determined by the family and/or churchThe most important institution in any society is the family. Real love in the family begins with a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Children most generally replicate the examples they observed in their parents when they become adults and have families of their own, and one of the most important decisions parents may make is to establish patterns in family life of both work and leisure. In all situations of life, children need to observe positive examples of how to respond appropriately to life's demands, and observing their parents at both work and play helps establish a positive view of the world in the minds of children and youth. Family vacation, and at least one evening a week set aside for family leisure, is important to obtaining a well-balanced and holistic understanding of Christian living.Family Night may also be an experience many churches need to encourage within the family. Often small churches do not have sufficient volunteers to staff vibrant children and youth programs, and frequently, children and youth Sunday school teachers also act as coordinators of social events for these age groups in the absence of church staff. Smaller churches will soon see the value of combining all age groups and pooling resources across the spectrum of church life into a single, once-a-month family night. This combined effort reduces the number of volunteers necessary to produce quality experiences for all age groups.In contemporary America, family life is frequently fragmented. Children often are tossed to one parent or the other knowing little stability in relationships and generally left with few positive role models. Family Night provides adults in the local church with the opportunity to reach out to the children and youth within the church, as well as the community, in order to make a difference in their lives. But children and youth are not the only ones who need this type of interaction. Too often churches focus only on the younger generation and fail to provide holistic interest in every generation. Adults also must continue to grow in their walk with the Lord and fellowship with other believers. With regard to the efforts with younger generations, Christian adults should be deliberate to reach out and touch younger lives—even though numerous situations may be new and therefore make them uncomfortable. Over an extended period of time, adults may have a significant impact upon the lives of youth. If America is to be saved from social decay, Christian adults must take an active role in the lives of the children and youth, first in their own families, then in their churches and communities.Observance: July 3He is often referred to as "Doubting Thomas," but Church history suggests that the Apostle Thomas was responsible for taking the gospel to some of the darkest spiritual corners of the world. Persia and India are believed to be the places Thomas ministered most extensively. In India, he is believed to have built a church with his own hands.Church history suggests that Thomas was attacked by his assassins, shot with arrows, stoned, and left to die. Following the attack, a pagan priest is thought to have run a spear through him. The apostolic symbol of Thomas combines a square (symbolizing the fact he was a builder) and a spear, reminding the Church of his martyrdom.In the ninth century, the Roman Church assigned the feast of Saint Thomas to December 21, though early Church leader, Jerome, assigned the day of his martyrdom to July 3. In 1969, the Roman observance of the life and ministry of Thomas was transferred—to follow Jerome's dating—to July 3 so that it would no longer interfere with the days of Advent. Following the 1662 edition of the Book of Common Prayer, some Anglicans and members of the Episcopal Church continue to remember the Apostle Thomas' ministry on December 21.Observance: July 4In September 1774, the first Congress of the American colonies was convened to address the refusal of King George III and the British Parliament to grant to the American colonists their rights as British citizens. At this Congress, and the one that followed, no talk of separation from Britain was entertained. The question was one of how to secure the rights that were theirs under English law.A Second Continental Congress assembled in May 1775. This Congress made provision for a temporary general government, an army, and appointed George Washington as commander-in-chief of the army. Still, they did not seek separation from England, but only to secure their rights as British citizens. With rising tensions, King George sent German mercenary troops to the colonies to silence the voices of dissent.In June of 1776, at another Congress of the colonies, Richard Henry Lee of Virginia offered a resolution that all allegiance of the colonies to British government be terminated. The proposition was entertained by the Congress, and a committee consisting of Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston was established. The draft of the Declaration of Independence was composed by Jefferson and after a few verbal alterations by Benjamin Franklin and John Adams, was submitted to Congress on the twenty-eighth day of June. On July first Congress took up the draft and after several amendments were made, nine colonies voted for independence. Maryland and Pennsylvania refused to accept the draft, but after conventions of the people were called, majorities were received in favor of the Declaration and the thirteen colonies were declared free and independent of the government of Britain. On July 4 only the president of the Congress, John Hancock, signed the Declaration of Independence; and with his name and the name of the secretary of Congress, Charles Thomson, the Declaration was initially sent forth to the world. Nearly one month later on August 2, it was signed by the remaining fifty-six signers, with the exception of one representative. The final signer was Matthew Thornton who took his seat in the Congress in November and asked for the privilege of signing it.Special attention should be given to the influence of Christians upon the rise of America as an independent nation. It is not possible to fully develop this influence in the space allotted for this article. However, it may briefly be mentioned that the president of the Congress, John Hancock, was the grandson and son of Christian ministers. All except two or three of the signers of the Declaration of Independence were part of Christian churches. Perhaps the following quotations will demonstrate the Christian influence behind the American Revolution.Benjamin Franklin: History will also afford frequent opportunities of showing the necessity of a public religion ... and the excellency of the Christian religion above all others, ancient and modern.

Dr. Stephen Flick | June 28, 2024 | Christian Calendar (Holidays)

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