Mountain Refuge Family Ministries

THOUGHTS ON BIBLE TRANSLATIONS

From time to time over the past twenty-five years, I have been appraised of the opinions of some who feel that the only legitimate version of the Bible is the KJV, and possibly the NKJV, since it is based mainly upon the original KJV. Since I have chosen the NIV as the Bible I use the most, I have had sincere souls express their concern that I will be led astray, and/or lead others astray by the use of this version. I have been given tomes to read on the subject; I have received counsel that ranges from worried concern to assertions that it is inspired by the Devil to destroy the Remnant church. As a result, I have taken it to the Lord and asked for guidance, and have personally studied out the differences which have come to my attention, either from others, or from my own discovery. The following article contains a few examples of my research, and some thoughts which may be helpful in understanding why I and perhaps others choose to use the NIV. (more…)

MAKING AN END OF SIN

The list of accomplishments which were prophesied in Daniel 9:24 to be fulfilled by the coming of Jesus, the promised Messiah, is astounding. Through His life, ministry, death, resurrection, ascension and mediation, He would “finish transgression, put an end to sin, atone for wickedness, bring in everlasting righteousness, seal up vision and prophecy and anoint the most holy.” In other words, the first coming of Jesus to this earth would provide for the complete eradication of the damage done by Satan’s rebellion in heaven. What Satan began, Christ would finish. Through Jesus, the plan of salvation would bruise the serpent’s head and free all who would choose to allow God to remove the curse of sin in their lives.

Throughout Jesus’ life, He demonstrated what a life free from sin would look like in every human situation. He modeled for us a holiness and perfection of character that is foreign to fallen beings. But He did this not just to excite our admiration so that we would be drawn to Him, but also that we might have a way back to holiness and godliness in our own lives. His purpose was to restore the human race to the perfect righteousness and happiness that crowned Adam and Eve on the day of their creation. As Creator and re-Creator, Jesus has all power to “save His people from their sins” (Matt. 1:21). Because of this, Peter can exhort us to follow the example of our Savior and walk in His steps. (more…)

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