Mark Olmos - Blog

Oprah: Many Ways to God?

2011-06-01T14:05:00.000-07:00

Well the Oprah phenomenon is over in its present form. Her career has truly been astounding. My concern for her influence has to do with her view of God as expressed on her show.

When asked how Oprah reconciles her christian beliefs with some of the new age philosophy that she promotes she answered, "I opened my mind to the hugeness of what we call God." She explains another time that she was raised in the Baptist Church and needed to take God "out of the box." Another time she openly proclaims that Jesus is NOT the only way to what we consider God and that there are many ways.

She is an amazing woman with an amazing life story. She is also a very good person and sincerely cares for people. I would count it a privilege to call her a friend. But when it comes to God, she is mistaken. The worse part is not her belief system but HOW she gets it. The problem is how she thinks about God and religion.

The source of her problem is thinking that an individual can create truth through sincere belief. You hear that philosophy in statements like:

"It doesn't matter what you believe as long as you are sincere."

"I'm glad your belief works for you, but it doesn't work for everybody."

"Your belief is true for what you conceive God to be."

It assumes that a human being can "create" their own truth by believing. In that sense Oprah believes that everyones "beliefs" are valid and no ONE belief works for everybody. It assumes that the ultimate source of truth is a human heart/mind. God then is created in our image. But truth cannot be created by belief or destroyed by unbelief. Truth simply exists to be discovered.

What Oprah believes is as far as you can get from the God of the Bible. You see, it leaves out the reality of God and puts God and religion in the realm of the human imagination.

But faith/belief is only as valid as the object in which it is placed. You can believe with all your heart that your pet fish is the god of the universe, but that won't make it true. You can believe with all your heart that god is what you make him to be, but that won't make that true either. You have to choose after careful investigation where to put your trust and faith and belief. It's an important choice because it involves where you are hanging your eternal soul.

For me, I believe that there is a very real God out there who made all that there is, and chose to reveal himself through nature, human conscience, and through His revealed Word (Holy Bible) and most importantly in His Son Jesus Christ. He's a good, loving, and just God. And Jesus, His Son, the ruler of the universe said very clearly that He IS the ONLY way to the Father. (Jn. 14:6) I fall far short of being able to be in heaven with God by my own merit, but He sent His Son to open a way back to Him. I trust Jesus.

Has this expression of faith been distorted by countless wackos? Yes.

Has this expression of faith misrepresented God? Yes. (see blog on Doomsday Prophet)

Has this expression of faith been institutionalized to the point of irrelevance at times? Yes.

Has this expression of faith been stripped down to meaningless, boring religious habit? Yes.

And I believe that this has caused a lot of people who did the "Christian" gig sometime in their life to think that they got the real thing (including Oprah). But it's very possible that they did not get a true expression of God's truth and thereby hung their faith on something very fragile, making it easy for them to shirk it later in life when they "took God out of the box." God isn't in a box called human religion nor is He in the ponderings of fallen human minds or hearts. He is God, infinite, eternal, and all-powerful. Yet, he is personal and loving and compassionate and knowable (because He chooses to be).

More than one way?? If you think correctly there can't be many ways to God. One, none of the major religions or their prophets teach that. Two, the only people that claim that are outside of those religions. Third, if there were different ways to the same God then you would expect there to be some commonality in teachings. But there isn't. Case closed.

Often people who believe in many ways will accuse those who believe in ONE way to be narrow minded. The truth is, believing in many ways is just as narrow because it negates most of the world religions. It claims to have a higher way of thinking (or feeling) about god and religion. And if you can't think like them, you're wrong. Sounds pretty narrow...

In my view truth by nature is narrow. And it's okay for someone to be right and for someone to be wrong. Because I love people (and Oprah) I would do my best to share my faith with them and help them discover a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. If they were devout followers of another religion, I would love them just the same, be a sincere and active friend in their life, and expect them to do everything in their power to convert me to their religion. I would engage in honest, passionate, respectful debates out of a heart of love for as long as I live. But at least we'd be thinking right...we'd be intellectually honest.

I wish Oprah the best, and hope she finds the truth. I pray that she will not unwittingly mislead millions on their spiritual journey. From what I can tell of her character, it would absolutely break her heart to know that she used her influence in a way that moved people away from God instead of closer.

Harold Camping - Doomsday Prophet

2011-05-24T09:10:00.000-07:00

Let's take a moment to think the best here for a bit. In his heart of hearts is it possible that Harold Camping started with the vision of teaching the Word of God to as many people as possible through radio and doing something good with it? When you look at his background he seems to be a faithful sincere Christian who served his church well and followed God's lead to launch a bible-focused ministry during a time when the church was struggling with great social changes (60's). His radio station strove to keep programs that were true to God's Word and not associated with "extra-biblical" revelation. That is, anything from outside the Biblical pages. Good sound approach isn't it?

What happened? Somewhere along the line he declared the "church age" over. He believes that all institutional expressions of the church are apostate. By doing this he left any semblance of accountability for his teaching which is always dangerous. His biggest error (there are many others) was getting into biblical numerology and attempting to predict the end of the world, which he has missed three times now. And here comes October 21st.

What are the source of these errors? I believe it is three-fold.

First, he allowed himself to embrace a false and dangerous way of biblical interpretation where after looking at the context of a verse (very good) you look for the "spiritual meaning" behind verse (very bad). In doing so he turns a narrative story with spiritual lessons and principles into an allegory or symbolic story reading into it additional spiritual meanings. When you do that you are lost in the woods. My professor used to say, "when the plain sense makes sense, seek no other sense." The bible is meant to be understood in a straightforward way. There are times when it is literal narrative and times when it is poetic, prophetic, parable, or epistle (letters to churches) but it gives you clear clues to be able to discern that. By departing from good interpretation he opened the door to disaster.

His second error, in my view, was doing what Christians so often do. Early on, he started worshipping bible study instead of God. It's so easy to worship a method that we are passionate about and lose sight of God. We worship worship, or prayer, or small groups, or other Christian ministry methods that are designed to get us closer in our relationship with God. If done correctly we love God with all of our hearts, we love people around us, and we reflect the same gentle and humble character that Jesus had. He so fiercely defended the need for personal bible-study and made the method his focus instead of a sincere relationship with God. That led to another reason for his downfall.

By putting so much focus on understanding the bible rightly he shrugged off the possibility that he could be wrong. He became the ultimate authority because he saw himself at THE mouthpiece for God's truth. The truth is ANY of us can get it wrong, can get imbalanced, can misinterpret, can misapply truth. That's why we need the church. We need other sincere, mature, and godly eyes on our teaching. We need a community of love and truth to be a sounding board to keep us accountable as we strive to live out God's truth correctly.

At worst he is a cult leader and false prophet, at best he is a man who started out with a genuine love for God and passion for the truth who took a very wrong turn and has given the world another reason to mock God, the Bible, and the Church. But I wouldn't worry to much about that. The truth runs deep, lives are being genuinely changed by God's love and grace, and the true church can and will stand firm and continue to follow God's lead.

As for Harold, I'd love to have coffee with him sometime and have a civil discussion on what we agree on and disagree on and urge him towards the truth. As for me, I will keep a healthy fear of taking a wrong turn in my own walk with God. I pray that my heart would always be tender and authentic and my bible study and application accurate . I hope that I can finish my life having done more good for God's kingdom than bad. Perhaps that's the most any of us can expect.

Does Hell exist?? Rob Bell's book "Love Wins"

2011-05-22T22:55:00.000-07:00

I took the time to read and ponder Rob Bell's book, "Love Wins." In it Rob implies that people can restore a relationship with Christ after death and that hell itself may be a place of intense pruning rather than a place of eternal punishment. He's been accused of being a universalist. That is, the belief that eventually everyone will make it to heaven. He's also been accused of blurring the important doctrine of eternal punishment or hell.

It's confusing that such a gifted communicator and thinker can go so wrong. He himself claims not to be a scholar or theologian and frankly it shows here. Even if you disavow those titles if you claim to be a pastor you have to be responsible when you interpret scripture, even more so when God has allowed you to have a mantle of influence, whether you wanted it or not.

I believe he is a very sincere Christian leader and passionate pastor. I have heard nothing but good things about his character and service to the Kingdom. In this case he's careless. It's okay to write a book that will stimulate discussion and cause people to think through their faith, however, it must always be anchored to the truth and "Love Wins" was not.

Here's the short answer. I'll give you the joy of discovering the details. A scholar and theologian from Western Seminary put his finger on the problem with Love Wins. Bell refers to an interpretation of the greek verb, kolazo (punishment, which he implies can mean "correction" or "pruning") to make his argument. The bible however uses the noun, kolasis. He then camps on a shade of meaning used by Plato 400 yrs. earlier and in other secular non-biblical settings. Bell also uses the greek noun aion (eternity, which he claims is not a concept the biblical writers used), while the Bible uses the adjective aionos. The adjective clearly means unending time. He gets a shade of meaning from the noun form. Yes, I know, technical...but very important. If you read the Bible with the correct tenses it clearly talks about eternal punishment in hell for those who don't know Christ. That's why every english translation of the Bible that we have translates those sections "eternal punishment" and not "intense period of pruning."

Bell attempts to paint of picture of reality with an unbalanced view of God's love. God's love is perfect. So is His Holiness, Justice, and Wrath. God is glorified by his grace and love in heaven and God's holiness and justice is glorified in hell. God is perfect and glorified in all of His creation.

The truth is love will win...but not quite in the way that Bell suggests. The conversation goes on...but lets stay anchored to the truth and be found faithful to accurately interpret it.

Is it worth it to suffer in ministry?

2011-05-09T10:29:00.000-07:00

The apostle Paul, thought so. He was a missionary that started his mission work by avoiding assassination attempts. He went on to an adventure filled with riots, stonings, shipwrecks, and jail cells. Why be in ministry when it gets too hard??

This is what Paul said, "All of this is for your benefit. And as God's grace reaches more and more people, there will be great thanksgiving and God will receive more and more glory." (2 Cor. 4:15 NLT)

He was sure he would be in heaven AND he just knew that more and more people giving their lives to Christ would bring more and more glory to God. That was worth suffering for.

It's the same for us. Keep preaching, keep reaching, keep striving and moving your ministry into the thick of the fight. Expect the trials, expect resistance...but remember, you'll be with Christ one day, and with you, all those you reach for His glory. It's totally worth it.

Keeping your eye on the ball!

2011-05-08T20:38:00.000-07:00

It's an old saying that still has teeth. "Keep your eye on the ball!" Whether you are trying to hit it, catch it, or field it the first rule of baseball is:

"don't be distracted",

"don't be caught sleeping",

"don't lose focus",

"Keep your eye on the ball!"

For any Christian it applies as well. There are many things we can be doing, but the main one is simple. "Make Disciples."

Go and tell people about the grace and love of Jesus Christ and then teach them to observe ALL that Christ commanded. Make Disciples. Reach and Teach...and then unleash.

I'm thankful to be in a church with a pastor who has his eye on the ball. We won't be distracted. We won't be caught sleeping. We won't lose focus.

Come hell or high water we'll keep our eye on the ball. We'll dedicate ourselves to the very end to making disciples and honoring Christ and by God's grace, we'll make a difference.

Ah, Christmas!

2009-11-29T20:32:00.000-08:00

I'm sure if you think back to this past year you can find things that caused pain or suffering in your life or in the life of someone that you love. Evil runs rampant and from time to time crosses our path. The weaknesses of others impact us, tear at our hearts, and sometimes drag us down. Our own weaknesses seem to chase us down from time to time reminding us of our fallen state. We live in a fallen world striving to find purpose in life and trying to love those around us with our imperfect hearts. And when you are in pain, sometimes all you can see is the pain and become locked in the moment wondering if life is really worth living. A dark tunnel without end.

But then, there's Christmas. A time of hope! It answers the cry that goes up in the midnight moments of our lives,

"Is there anyone up there that really cares?!"

"Is this ALL that there is?"

'Is it just us and this hard life?"

The infinite God of the universe answered in the most unusual way. He came to earth to rescue us. He walked in this fallen world and faced off with evil and carried out a mission to save us from the consequences of our sins. To give us hope beyond the grave, hope of changed lives, hope of supernatural courage to live out our lives with Joy, hope of a life filled with purpose and meaning, hope of ultimate justice for evil...Hope for a better tomorrow.

Jesus came to earth for you and me. He came TO earth to save us. Wow. Let's celebrate, let's share with others, let's shine the light of Christ's love ever so brightly in a world that needs it so bad. Set up your manger and be ready to tell the story that shouts out to us...God is real. God cares about what you are going through. God loves you very very VERY much!

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Age of the Fallen: Origins - What's Next??

2009-08-30T01:07:00.000-07:00

(Age of the Fallen Origins Series)

I'm going to try to tell you what's next without creating a spoiler for those of you who are still reading AGE OF THE FALLEN.

The plan has always been to write a series of books involving characters from the original story. AGE OF THE FALLEN was conceived as a three part story. So as you read this I am charting out new characters and refining the story line of book II. I'm excited to continue to explore the epic battle between good and evil and the impact that we can have in that world.

There is also a side story that is in the developmental stages. AGE OF THE FALLEN is set in Japan (and I hope to have it translated into Japanese and sold there). But this story line will take place in an American city. It's called "The Demon in My Closet." Again, I won't spoil the plot by telling you much about it, but honestly I started the story in a movie script format. (Yes, I know. I've always been a dreamer...with faith!)

I would LOVE to see the book turned into a movie. I think it would be an incredible visual story. It would be terrifying and inspiring. Most of all it would plant seeds of truth in movie audiences around the world. It has elements of love, loyalty, grace, faith, courage, pain, renewal, evil, good, suffering, self-sacrifice, teamwork, mentoring, failure, and triumph. I'd love to see a good director get all that on the screen in a compelling story.

So when you turn the final page of AOF while listening to an epic soundtrack, just know that the adventure is just beginning!

AND, it's an adventure that we can all live and be a part of every single day....

The book is now in-stock at Amazon. com and Christian Book Distributors (google it...) and a few other sites. You can still order autographed copies from my website...I'd love to write you a note of thanks.

Age of the Fallen: How to Order!

2009-08-20T09:58:00.000-07:00

People are starting to enjoy the characters and story in Age of the Fallen. Some are asking me about where to order more copies of the book. Here's how to order.

You can order from Amazon.com or Barnes and Noble online store. It will also be available in Christian Bookstores starting next week (depending on shipping times).

If you want an autographed copy you can buy directly from my website http://spiritualswordsman.com

I'll be glad to write a note of thanks and scripture to encourage you or anyone you'd like to give the book too! When you order just let me know who to write the note for.

Age of the Fallen will inspire and encourage people. It's about making a difference in this fallen world. The characters struggle and fight and suffer holding on to their faith in God and their love for each other. There is a clear gospel message imbedded in the story and a multitude of discipleship principles. It's about being a true disciple in your generation.

I'm praying that AOF will touch and inspire a generation of young radical spiritual warriors.

For His Honor!

Age of the Fallen: Music to Read by!

2009-08-12T16:40:00.001-07:00

I'll never forget the classic duel between Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker (Yes, many of you were with me on opening day!). We had waited the whole Star Wars Series to see them square off and fight. Then the moment finally came, and with the Emperor laughing with evil glee, the darkside champion faced off with the last of the trained Jedi. What made the scene really stick was the music in the backround. There was an epic song playing with a chorus of human voices singing while they fought to the final conclusion. It was really cool and left us all out of breath in the theater that day.

With that in mind, I have some musical suggestions for those of you that would like to "experience" AGE OF THE FALLEN and not just fly through it.

Music that I listened too during the writing of the book came from three main sources; Pirates of the Caribbean (I, II, and III), Transformers the Movie, and Chronicles of Narnia (the first one). YOu can put these on and just read each night and it will set the mood.

There are some real specific songs from Chapters:

The Intro - "What Shall We Die For" Pirates III
The Ultimate Lie (Chpt. 1) "Decepticons" Transformers
Aiko (Chpt 3) "Autobots" Transformers
Sent Ones (Chpt 4) "Will and Elizabeth" Pirates I
Journey Home (Chpt. 5) "Western Woods to Beaverstown" Chronicles I
Ishi's Run (Chpt 8) "Pilots Theme" from Stealth the movie
Run (Chpt. 10) ) reads well with "Scorponok" Transformers
Aiko's Folly (Chpt 24) - "Jack's Suite" Pirates III
Battle for a Generation (Chpt 29)- "The Battle" from Chronicles of Narnia
A Whole New Game (Chpt 30)- "Funeral and Rebuilding" from "Serenity" the movie

Of course these are only suggestions and you can put on your favorite music and let it define the story. I'm sure you are getting the feel that the story was written to be exciting and fast moving and filled with moods and emotions.

Whether you listen to music or not when you read, I hope you enjoy the characters, the story, and the "feel" of Age of the Fallen. I wanted the characters to be likeable, the story to be engaging, and the message to be epic in nature.

The book is out now! When you get your copy put on some epic soundtracks, grab some coffee (or tea, or soda), sit back and experience what I hope is a thrilling and inspiring book.

As Aiko would say, "For His Honor!"

IF YOU HAVE ANY SUGGESTIONS AS YOU READ THE BOOK SEND THEM IN!

Age of the Fallen: Origins - What it all means...

2009-08-08T22:22:00.000-07:00

We know God is real. We also know that Satan is a very real being as well, as are the angels of heaven and the fallen ones that we call demons. Through the pages of scripture we also know that there is a very real spiritual struggle going on and man is caught right in the middle of it. The battle is decided in the area of truth and lies.

When a child of God realizes what it means to be a child of the King and a warrior of light, then there is no stopping them. It doesn't mean that there will be no suffering. It also doesn't mean that there will be no losses. The battle goes to the one who refuses to stop fighting.

Satan is relentless and patient and will return again and again to attack those who are in strategic positions to make a difference in this world. All we need are those followers of the Master who choose to be just at relentless in obeying what God asks them to do.

What we need is a generation of young people whose prayers are powerful, who know and live by the truth, and who stand shoulder to shoulder in unity laying it all on the line each day to change this world. Believers who long to be in the front where the light ends and the darkness begins. Who will endure the hateful stare of evil and stare back with love. Who will stand with one another and never, ever leave anyone behind.

Age of the Fallen is a spiritual thriller filled with truth and passionate discipleship. My hope and prayer is that it will have some small impact on the most important venue of all...the advancing Kingdom of God. After all, everyday, everywhere, all around us the battle between good and evil rages. All we have to do is choose sides and make a difference.

PRE-ORDER YOUR AUTOGRAPHED COPY OF AGE OF THE FALLEN (SHIPS MONDAY!!) AT http://spiritualswordsman.com

Age of the Fallen: Origins - My Passion

2009-07-30T10:10:00.001-07:00

(Age of the Fallen - Origins Series)
In my 32 years of ministry I've always been amazed at the tenacity and passion of teenage believers. In a time where they are experiencing a tremendous amount of peer pressure to conform to a role or a set of values, they are able to stand up, carry bibles, speak of their faith, serve God, and go all over the world to bring Christ to orphans, homeless, under privileged, or spiritually confused. Teenagers rock!

When I started the book my passion wasn't so much that I wanted to see evil get a bloody nose (even though I do!). It wasn't that I wanted to just highlight issues in Japan or focus on suicide. It also wasn't my intention to simply open up eyes to the spiritual battle behind the scenes everyday. It was about the potential of a teenage warrior.

I wanted to broadcast to the teenage world, that we NEED them to step up and DO what God is asking them to DO. We need Aikos and Takumis and Ishis and Michios (and the other team members) to take up their swords, put on their armor and get to the front where Christ is turning the tide in the spiritual battle.

In Age of the Fallen the kids are simple. They love the Master (Jesus), the love each other, and they fight. No matter what the cost, when He calls they go out. They let God lead in the strategic battle and use all their available resources to make a difference.

We need another generation of all-out, spirit-filled, Bible saturated, deeply loving, and Christ-like teens to storm those strongholds that still exist in this world. That's really was my passion in writing Age of the Fallen. When I go back and read certain intense scenes in the book, I still come to tears because I know, have felt, and seen the emotions that are filing the pages.

Like David, Daniel, Joseph, Mary (mother of Jesus), John in scripture...teenagers have a legacy of being Kingdom warriors. Lets envision them, train them, and send them out to change the world. That's my passion.

PRE-ORDER YOUR AUTOGRAPHED COPY OF AGE OF THE FALLEN (SHIPS AUGUST 10TH) AT http://spiritualswordsman.com

Age of the Fallen: Origins - How the Book was Titled

2009-07-27T16:37:00.000-07:00

(Age of the Fallen: Origins Series) So how was the book named? The basic premise of the book is that we are in a age where there is a great spiritual battle going on.

The Bible tells us that God created all things good. Despite that He gave the gift of "choice" to his creation. At one point in time Angelic beings had a choice. One such being, a leader of angels, named Lucifer became extremely prideful and led a rebellion in heaven. God's angels fought against the rebels and they were defeated and cast to earth. They became fallen angels or demons. They will be judged in the end, but for now war against those who draw near to God.

God's most precious creation, man, also made a choice to rebel against God (being tempted by Satan) and became fallen as well. Man's relationship with God was broken and thus began a spiritual battle centered around the redemption of mankind. God intended to send His Son to rescue mankind and to undo all that Satan had done to His creation. Satan of course would resist in every way that he could throughout history.

The battlefield is often the mind and heart. The weapons are truth vs. lies. The consequences are lives and eternities. What is needed is for the "children of light" to take a stand and resist the evil one and advance God's Kingdom as He leads.

So here we are in the Age of the Fallen (men and angels). At first I was tossing around "Warriors of Light" and other such images...but then my kids got involved. They bantered and threw around their own images and my son Daniel came up with Age of the Fallen. As soon as I heard it, I knew it was right.

That truly is the age we live in. We still have a choice. We can either get involved and make a difference or sit back and watch lives around us ruined by the evil one. We're put here to fill the world with love and truth. Until all things are made new and our world is no longer fallen...the battle will go on.

PRE-ORDER YOUR AUTOGRAPHED COPY OF THE BOOK (SHIPPING AUG. 10TH): http://spiritualswordsman.com

Age of the Fallen: Origins - Feedback from Test Readers

2009-07-25T22:17:00.000-07:00

(Age of the Fallen: Origins Series) From the beginning I started getting feedback on the story from different people. I was concerned that the story was compelling, the characters were entertaining and inspiring, and the writing style was gritty and fast moving. Well...I had to make some changes as the project moved forward.

First I had the Demons using filthly language (I mean the worst you can imagine!). I figured that our kids hear this language all day long in the world and I wanted to draw a good contrast with Aiko and her friends. So I used bad language for the demons and bad guys. My kids were concerned because they were sure that I had no idea how to cuss! After a few comments from moms and one of my editors I decided to tone it down to expand the audience. A good friend asked, "What are the two biggest stories of our time?" Answer: "Star Wars and Indiana Jones." "So, how much cussing was there? Did that take away from their impact?" I was convinced. Eventually I had to even take out the "goshes" and "darns" in order to have the book stocked in Christian Bookstores.

My Japanese friends loved the story but asked me to change some names because they were too unusual. Kisho became Takumi. Cho became Mai. And the brothers went from to Kane and Washi to Koh and Kai. A warrior in the book would also say, "In His Name" from time to time, but in Japanese it was better to say, "For His honor" because it would translate better.

I would always ask. "What is your favorite chapter?" And "Who is your favorite character?" My test readers loved "Theology" because it had the gospel in it, "Aiko's Folly" because it is hold-your-breath fast moving, and "Whore" because it was so touching. As for the characters, readers love the one brother who keeps things light throughout the book and always was the voice of doubt. Others loved Ishi (female) the strong loyal friend, soccer player, and next in command. But most got attached to Aiko because she is simply dauntless.

In the end, my editor loved it (was in tears several times) and my Japanese friends were touched by it. Here is the endorsement that I got from a dear brother, who loves God intensely, and helped with the editing.

"This timely and captivating novel will shock many readers; it is radical but entirely relevant. The author draws you into the mindset of Asian youth with startling clarity in this classic confrontation between good and evil. Olmos redefines the relevance of today’s church with prophetic clarity and theological fervor, interwoven within a storyline that is unique, compelling and highly creative." —Roger Lenk, Headmaster, St Michael’s International School, Kobe, Japan.

If just one young person is inspired to follow Christ closer and to take up his/her sword and engage in the spiritual war, I'll be blessed!

PRE-ORDER AN AUTOGRAPHED COPY AT: http://spiritualswordsman.com

Age of the Fallen: Origins - Road to August 10th!

2009-07-16T22:37:00.000-07:00

The writing of AGE OF THE FALLEN was a three 1/2 year process. It started in a Starbucks in Hawaii in the Fall of 2005. I wrote only "Sent Ones" during that time (an early battle in the book). Then I let that sit for a few months and took it through numerous re-writes. Then I took some time to really work on the structure of the story and the development of the characters. After that back to writing!

I wrote about three Chapters before leaving for Japan. Then in Japan I wrote in various Starbucks, in a small apartment across the street from a cult temple. The story was finished in May of 2007 and thus began the search for a publisher AND test readings by various friends and colleagues. I was especially interested in Japanese young people and how they would respond to the book. As I got comments from them I made adjustments to the story and even changed the names of some of the characters.

After connecting with a good publisher I started working with the coolest editor from Canada, Susan Lohrer. Through her coaching and trained eye, I learned so much about writing that will stay with me through the next book. At the same time artists started running book covers by me and I provided ideas for the marketing team.

Once done with everything, it was given one more edit to polish it.

Even though I've read each chapter numerous times, I still come to tears at certain parts of the book. One of my best compliments was when my editor did the same thing. It's a moving, sad, maddening, inspiring, touching, and triumphant book. I thank God for His leadership throughout the process.

I hope you are touched by AGE OF THE FALLEN as much as I was writing it.

PRE-ORDER YOUR AUTOGRAPHED COPY TODAY: http://spiritualswordsman.com

Age of the Fallen: Origins - WHOOOSH!

2009-07-06T21:08:00.000-07:00

(Age of the Fallen: Origins Series)
In AGE OF THE FALLEN there is an epic struggle between good and evil where demons work in lies and those who follow the Master wield truth. When they face off against each other the result is often a "WHOOOSH!"

The concept of the WHOOOSH is found in passages of bible where an exorcism is described. Jesus commands demons to be quiet. He would cast them out with a command. They would sometime beg Him not to send them to the abyss. In a parable Jesus spoke of a demon going through "arid" or "waterless" places seeking rest. The idea is that demons weren't destroyed (that comes in the end of time), instead they were banished. However, they could return to harass people if those people didn't draw near to God. Jesus also gave His followers the authority to cast out demons. When he sent them out to preach in pairs they also would cast out demons with a command. The understanding is that we cannot cast out demons ourselves, but when the Master gives us the authority as His followers we can oppose evil in His strength and His power and His name...all for His honor.

In AOF there are not a lot of lofty explanations. You just hear "WHOOOSH" a lot as Aiko and her friends do all that they can to make a difference in this fallen world. Ah yes, and there was that time when Jesus' disciples couldn't cast out a particular demon. Hmmm...think that ended up in the book? (smile)

I believe that if we had the ability to see into the spiritual world that each day we would see true believers dispelling lies with truth and pushing back the darkness by living in the light and equipping themselves with the armor of light described in the Bible.

Pre-order your autographed copy of AGE OF THE FALLEN now at: http://spiritualswordsman.com/devotions.htm
(It's at the presses!)

Age of the Fallen: Origins - Friends in Arms

2009-06-26T09:26:00.000-07:00

(Age of the Fallen: Origins Series)

Okay, I'm going attempt to tell you about the characters without spoiling the plot of the book. Some of my most fun moments in writing AGE OF THE FALLEN was creating the personalities of the teens that would interact with each other throughout the story.

My goal was to show that regardless of your group in school, when you are united behind the Master (Jesus Christ), all those labels and boundaries disappear. So a confident baseball player (Yes, I had to do that!) partners with a computer game playing chess champion, an intense soccer girl pairs with a shy dancer, and two brothers who work for their parents and fight constantly become an incredible team in spiritual combat. There are more...but I'll let you have the joy of discovering them. They are all united by Aiko who is a leader plain and simple. She is passionate, loving, wise, and very driven.

While I wrote part of the book in Japan I scanned the crowds for my characters. And I found them! (And some for the next book too!). I would see a teenage guy walk in and think, "That's Takumi!" I did that for all of the characters except one. I never found an Aiko. Why? Because she is very unique.

She burns with an intensity and passion for truth. She is intense and very focused on each mission, but compassionate, caring, and self-sacrificing. Her eyes would beam with love and determination but at times would show weariness and questions for her God. She is also a "called" one and bears that mantle with humility and wreckless abandon.

When the team comes together, they forget all labels and become a unit under the direction of their Master. Aiko leads and they fight in "twos" and become a force to be reckoned with. In the end, it's their love and loyalty to one another that gets them to the end (most of them?). I hope you enjoy their friendships as much as I enjoyed writing the bantering, eating, teasing, and working together during intense spiritual combat.

Pre-Order your signed copy today: http://spiritualswordsman.com/devotions.htm

Age of the Fallen: Origins - Teenagers ROCK!

2009-06-22T14:57:00.000-07:00

(Age of the Fallen: Origin Series)
The main characters of AGE OF THE FALLEN range in age from 14-18. There is one eighth grader who hangs out with older high school friends. They are led by a Senior, Aiko, who has already suffered more than most people do in their life time. Together, they are a bantering, snack food eating, computer game playing, cell phone wielding, group of powerful spiritual warriors. (more on them in next blog)

Why teenagers? Because when it comes to spiritual things, they are down right dangerous! It's true. They have this energy and passion for life. They are curious and excited and processing new freedom and hope for the future. They are dreamers who are too naive to be pessistic or realistic. You combine that with real, authentic faith...and they become powerful followers of Christ. They are wonderfully foolish enough to ask Him for big things!

Some of the most committed kingdom builders I have ever met in 32 years of ministry have been teenagers. And I believe that Satan is afraid of what they can do if they believe and unite. That's why he works overtime to distract them or to destroy them before they can pick up the banner for their generation.

Let's remember that our teens can be a force in the spiritual war that rages every day. Encourage them to choose sides, team up, and make a difference!

Pre-order AGE OF THE FALLEN now at: http://spiritualswordsman.com/devotions.htm

Age of the Fallen: Origins - Why Japan??

2009-06-19T15:13:00.000-07:00

(Age of the Fallen: Origins Series) When I heard about the spiritual condition in Japan my heart truly broke for that country. I spent many train rides watching Japanese young people and wondering how to plant a seed of truth in their hearts and minds.

Then I started to notice that they LOVED to read. So many of them had open books in the train while they were traveling from place to place. So God planted a seed in my heart to write something that they would enjoy reading and a story that would convey truth to them as well.

That's when I started to look at the genre that was popular in Japan and started to read what I could find in english. After skimming through a few stories I knew that AGE OF THE FALLEN had a unique place. Because it is anchored in Biblical truth it would give the story a strong foundation to build upon.

And it would also touch issues that were close to their hearts like suicide, friendship, teamwork, loyalty, self-sacrifice, and love. My hope is that the book will do well in the U.S. and then be able to get published in Japanese and find it's way into their hands. I also hope to see it made into a movie (it would be GREAT!). I actually wrote it with a movie in mind. Hint: When you read it be sure to have the Transformers, Chronicles of Narnia, and Pirates of the Caribbean soundtracks playing loud!

In the end, I hope a generation of young people around the world see what a difference they can make when they "choose sides" and do what God wants them to do...at all costs.

(Pre-order your autographed book now: http://spiritualswordsman.com/devotions.htm)

Age of the Fallen: Origins

2009-06-19T01:20:00.000-07:00

(New Series of Blogs on the Origins and Inspiration for AGE OF THE FALLEN by Mark Olmos, a spiritual thriller)

"No doubt, the first ideas for this book came from the temptation of Jesus by Satan in the wilderness. In Matt. 4:1-11 Jesus faces three temptations from the devil and in response to each attack Jesus quotes scripture. Since the Bible is called the "sword of the Spirit" elsewhere in the New Testament I saw the whole episode as a sword fight between them.

So one day I sat at Starbucks and wrote a paraphrase of the passage making it out to be a samurai sword fight between Jesus and Satan. Although this sword fight doesn't appear in the first book (there are two more coming), it lays the foundation for what Aiko and her friends have to do to push back the evil that is trying to take over their city.

In it's most simple form, what you will find in AGE OF THE FALLEN is the battle between truth and lies. Satan and his demons work in lies and the followers of the Master wield truth. And when they oppose each other...the sparks start to fly!

Pre-order your book today at: http://spiritualswordsman.com/devotions.htm

JOY

2009-06-19T01:07:00.001-07:00

When you know God you can experience an unshakable JOY!

It's not like happiness which is based on what's "happening" around you. It's a deep rooted JOY that is based on the truth that God is real, He loves you, and no matter what is going on in your life right now, God promises to be with you.

He will strengthen you in hard times. Heal you in broken times. Provide for you in sparse times. Love you in lonely times. And when you feel discouraged and alone, He will reach down and help you dance again!

Nothing can steal the JOY that God gives you. How do you get there? Look up! Take some time to read the Bible and remember how powerful He is. Listen to worship music that lifts your soul and is filled with the truth about God's greatness and power. Take your eyes off the temporary things of the world and realize Who God is and how much he cares for you.

I'm in a real season of JOY. I'm so thankful for God's leadership in my life and how He provides for all of my needs. Don't miss out on His JOY! It's unshakable.

Tribute to a Saint and a Dear Friend

2009-04-28T20:05:00.000-07:00

I got word today that a dear friend went to be with the Lord. His name is Morse Saito. He was 82 years old when he passed away. He was a true saint.

Morse, a Japanese American, lived through the racism of World War II, during which his family was sent to internment camps in America. After the war he pursued higher education. He spoke often of the challenges he faced during that time. He ended up in Japan as a radio broadcaster and then a professor where he served for many years. It seemed like everybody in Kobe was at one time a student of Morse (it seemed that way!).

He was one of those men who was a student of life and history. He loved to stand up in church services or business meetings to give us historical perspective on what we were doing. He was always kind to me and sought peace with everyone. Anytime he had an issue to raise he presented his concern with Christ-like character and with the humility to listen to differing opinions.

While I was in Kobe we spent hours sitting and talking about history, education, theology, and life in Japan. He was a true encouragement to me while I pastored during a very challenging time. What I remember most is that every single Sunday Morse would meet me in my office. We would chat briefly and then he would bow his head and pray for me. Every Sunday.

He pulled me aside once and said, "The vote to bring you here was 100-3. I was one of the three. I just want you to know, that I changed my mind." That humble and encouraging gesture is what I will always remember about my friend. He was a true treasure in Kobe Union Church. He will be missed. I look forward to some nice long talks with him in glory.

Angels and Demons and YOU

2009-02-07T21:57:00.000-08:00

There is a spiritual war going on all around us. Although we know that the victory belongs to God in the end, we still have to live through this fallen age.

In each of our spiritual journeys we will from time to time encounter an angel or a demon. The angels are God's servants that bring comfort, protection, and gentle care when we are down. The demons hate us with a passion because we are God's highest creation. They will lie, slander, decieve, and do all that they can to discourage you or to get you to believe in lies.

But even a kid in junior high with the TRUTH can turn them back. When prepared (armored up!) we can resist them and cause them to flee. Why? Not because we are great, but because we serve a great God and Jesus came to undo the works of the evil one.

That's what scares Satan more than anything else, that you will follow Jesus, choose sides, and make a difference. Do it! And be ready for the most amazing life possible.

After being at war most of my life I decided to write a book about Japanese teens fighting and sacrificing to save their generation. It's coming out May 2009.

You can pre-order an autographed book (1000 available) at this link:

Pre-Order: Age of the Fallen

Or get it slightly cheaper at Amazon.com:

Amazon: Age of the Fallen

Truth is Everything!

2009-01-26T21:16:00.001-08:00

Think about it. If truth is what is truly real and falsehood is a lie, then truth is everything! Truth is not something that can be created by sincere belief. It also cannot be destroyed by lack of believe. Truth does not find it's origin in the heart or intellect of man. Nor does it change from one person to another. You can't decide that 2+2+=5, or that red is black, or that evil is good. That would make US God and that's crazy.

Truth simply exists because God created it that way. And the good news is that God's truth rocks! Here's a sample:
- You are a precious hand-painted original. You are more valuable than you can ever imagine.
- Your heavenly Father loves you with a love that words will never be able to describe.
- God has reached out to you by sending His son to bring you into a friendship with God.
- No matter who you are, or what you have done, God's grace is sufficient to give you a new start!
- Jesus Christ IS God in the flesh, truly someone you can trust with your soul.
- God gave us His Word of Truth (The Bible) to give us His clear directions for life and spirituality.

Want a good dose of truth. Pick up a Bible today and start reading! And be sure to ask God to help you understand and apply it to your life. He will help you. Want to know why? Because He is REAL. That's the truth!

The God Who Is There

2009-01-12T21:40:00.000-08:00

No matter how dark the night, the morning always comes. There is a God. He is real and He loves you. He has counted every single hair of your head. He has watched every single tear that you've shed. And He is waiting to comfort and restore you.

Not only that...He wants you to to learn to walk again. Then to run. Then to run into battle for the advancement of His Kingdom. He has a purpose for your life that is good and filled with meaning and joy.

He may seem far away at times. He may seem silent at times. But He is there. He has always been there. And He has always, always, always loved you. How do we know? The cross. Extraordinary, unbelievable, amazing love was shown to you when Jesus died for your sins so that you could be forgiven and go to be with your Father in heaven some day.

Until then remember, if you are in the dark, the light is coming. If you are in a valley the mountain top will be come. Because God is there, and that means there is always hope.

The Way It Works

2008-02-12T05:36:00.001-08:00

That's just the way it works. He calls. You go out. It doesn't matter how tired you are or what you are feeling inside. You have to go out.

You might have lost a friend today, or found out that someone close has cancer. You might have had a door slammed in your face by someone you love. You might have been terribly misunderstood and criticized. But it doesn't matter. You have to go out. That's just the way it works.

When you accepted your call you gave up rights to your life. Remember, "Deny yourself...take up your cross..." Your life is not your's anymore. So pick up your helmet for the hundreth time today...and go out.

If only they understood. If only they knew how to take care of a warrior. The battles you would fight, the strongholds you would storm. You really would die for Christ, wouldn't you? Why do they throw so many things at you that are not worth dying for or living for?

Somehow when you stagger in with nothing left to give, somewhere someone is celebrating a miracle. The darkness has been pushed back in someone's life. A second chance from heaven is shining on someone's face. But you are tired because you are just a human involved in God-sized things. People wonder at your faith, but you wonder if God took notice. And just before you catch your breath, the call comes again...and you have to go out. That's just the way it works.

Pick up your helmet and get out there. Called ones will rest in eternity, but never here. That's just the way it works.

Corporate Distortion

2008-01-17T07:12:00.000-08:00

Why is it that when God's truth gets to the corporate level there seems to be an unavoidable distortion. Come on, have you ever met anyone who has been hurt or wounded by a church experience?

Instead of TRUTH being dynamic, fresh, and transforming, it creates a burden of conformity and becomes a tool of the community to marginalize and judge others.

Instead of serving with a pure heart, interested only in pleasing God and building His Kingdom, LEADERS end up ambitious, envious, jealous, and insecure.

When enough people gather around the truth, there seems to be a mishandling of the CORPORATE expression. Image wins over authenticity. Numbers win over depth. The law wins over grace. Empty rituals win over genuine spirituality. Personal politics wins over submitting to the Spirit's leadership.

How in Christ's Name can imperfect people preserve and model His message corporately? Probably the same way that those first simple untrained men did. Each and every one of us needs to follow Jesus. All agendas aside, just follow Jesus. All preferences suspended and surrendered to the will of Christ. Just follow Jesus and maybe, just maybe, the body of Christ will shine.

Aiko

2008-01-12T08:50:00.001-08:00

Aiko is amazing. She is the heroine in the book, Age of the Fallen, who radiates with the character that we would all love to have. She is not a flashy, image driven leader at all. She simply loves and trusts God and will lay down her life to accomplish what she is called to do. She also loves her friends deeply, inspiring the most sacrificial loyalty from them.

And she isn't a shallow leader that has never had to face pain or failure. She has lost a sister to suicide, a brother to evil, and her parents in the spiritual war. She has truly suffered. At times she longs for a "normal" life. She is weary from the responsibility of leadership and the toll that the spiritual war has taken on her and her friends. But she will never quit.

She is genuine in her spirituality. She prays constantly and knows her sword manual inside and out because she is at war. She's not frivolous but she is warm and friendly. She is not cruel, but she is intense and driven. She is not complacent, but she plans well and then takes effective action. She is compassionate enough to weep, but not weak at all. She never flinches or backs down from a fight, ever. She is fearless and dangerous and very real.

Oh, Lord, please, raise up an Aiko for Japan. (Drawing of Aiko by Masatoshi Kawabe)

Sneak Preview! AGE OF THE FALLEN

2007-07-09T18:28:00.000-07:00

Age of the Fallen is a new book about a remarkable Japanese teenage girl named Aiko who leads a group of friends against the demons who threaten to destroy her generation.

They are able to step into the spiritual dimension where truth becomes a sword and their loyalty to God becomes their armor. When they are called to stop yet another suicide, they unwittingly save Kenji, the son of an evil drug lord, and that sets into motion a deadly spiritual chess match between heaven and hell.

Age of the Fallen will remind of you of the sobering and very dangerous spiritual war we experience everyday. It describes the horror of demonic influences that come after us with every intention of destroying us. And it shows just how dangerous and powerful a teenager can be when they walk with the Master, and surround themselves with a loving and loyal team.

This is my first effort as a writer and hope that it captures my passion in this area and inspires you. Age of the Fallen is in the final editing and test-read phase. Look for it soon!

Not Meant for the Harbor!

2007-03-27T20:42:00.000-07:00

Churches don't belong in the harbor anymore than warships. No, they are designed for the open sea and for a spiritual battle that is raging all over the planet.

Yes, for resupplying, refitting, and sometimes changing out the crew a church needs to take down the sails, stow the guns, drop anchor, and/or tie up the mooring lines.

But once done you NEED to get back to the open seas before you become a floating museum. Soon you'll be giving tours, your guns will get rusty, your anchors will sink deep into the ocean bottom, and your crew will forget what it means to sacrifice and fight for a higher cause. Life gets comfortable. That's just NOT right.

Please. Call the crew back and get ready to sail. Be sure you are prepared for a fight, it will cost you something. Pull up the anchors, untie the ship from the dock and the winds of the Holy Spirit will fill your sails. God will drive you into the battle, but you have to put up the sails. Let the museum lovers find another ship, there are plenty to choose from.

Soon the crew will be scrambling all over the deck, you will be surrounded by battle-hardened warriors, and the church will become an adventure again...and the "gates of hades will not prevail" against you.

Christmas In Japan

2006-12-26T17:47:00.000-08:00

Pray for Japan this holiday season. 250 people crowded into Kobe Union Church on Christmas eve to hear about the God Who loves them so much. We held two earlier services on December 9th and 10th to serve our expat families before they left for vacation. 347 attended those services. Pray for the seeds that were planted in peoples hearts.

On December 25th in Japan, kids went to school, people went to work, businesses were opened as usual. It's not a holiday here.

Not yet.

Would you pray for the day that Japan is forced to declare a national holiday because so many Christians request time off to celebrate Christmas day and because so many leaders in the government have become Christian.

Impossible? Didn't the angel say to Mary, "For nothing is impossible with God." Let's pray together for the salvation of this precious country.

Kingdom or Castles

2006-10-17T08:44:00.000-07:00

Are you a Kingdom builder or a Castle builder? Kingdom builders partner with God to advance His Kingdom by making disciples of all the nations. They expect fruit. They expect growth. They expect always for the wind of the Spirit to drive them into the thick of new Spiritual battles, and they live for that. They share a deep comradeship with others in the battle and welcome them to the table of fellowship to discuss tactics and share resources. Their focus is on the King and His Kingdom.

Castle builders do their best to protect themselves or their institution. They build moats and walls and defenses. They have gatekeepers designed to keep people both IN and OUT. They are suspicious of others in the spiritual battle, not wanting anyone else to farm for fruit in their fields even though they have stopped reaping long ago. They jealousy hold on to, and sometimes control, their people. So much effort is put into perpetuating the castle that so so many people die without Christ in the shadow of their walls.

It was never about us and it never will be. It's about His Kingdom and His glory. We been challenged by Christ to "Seek first His Kingdom..." Let's do that and link arms with anyone else who calls Jesus Lord and change this world.

Each One Precious...

2006-09-01T18:50:00.000-07:00

You can't miss the fact that Jesus treated each person as a precious, hand-made original. Whether it was the vertically challenged tax-collector, Zaccheaus or the adulterous woman thrown at his feet in shame, or the throw away demon possessed man who lived in the tombs. Jesus saw each one with the worth that God built into them. Now He asks us to go into the world and to love them in His name.

We need to see people the way Jesus sees them. Don't be lulled into ignoring individuals as you move through crowds, travel on trains, or walk the malls.

Each one is precious in God's eyes. They each have a story. They have dreams, and hurts, and hopes...and they need to meet the Savior. They have no idea how much they matter to God, how much He loves them, how badly He wants them in heaven with Him....He sent you there to tell them.

But first you have to see them. And you need to fill each face, each life with all the meaning and worth that God build into them. Each one precious...

The Nail that Breaks the Hammer

2006-07-05T16:32:00.000-07:00

Something needs to change. There is a dangerous philosophy that has infiltrated the Japanese church. It comes from an old saying, "the nail that sticks out gets hammered down."

The church is in need of change and innovation. Now understand, the truth never changes..."...the Word of our God stands forever" (Isaiah 40:8) However, how that word is taught and lived out can change from age to age. A disciples heart is the same throughout history, but each generation the disciples of Christ face new challenges. The Word of God and the Christian faith must be taught in a contemporary and relevant way. Christian worship must resonate with the tastes of the contemporary heart. The Christian lifestyle must move into the 21st century honoring everything in God's Word, while being able to connect, interact with, and contend with the modern world.

The truth is when a leader in Japan tries something different he is often criticized and hammered down by other church leaders. That can't go on if Japan is to be saved.

There is a need for a generation of Japanese leaders to stick out and be different. I think God's heart breaks for the lostness of Japan and I believe that as a leader allows the Holy Spirit to fill him and lead him....when the hammer strikes...IT will break.

The tide in the battle for the soul of Japan needs to turn. For change to come about someone has to break the hammer. If you stand with Jesus the hammer will break...because Jesus made the hands that hold the hammer and He is Lord over them. Stand with your Lord. Fight for Japan and let the hammer strike again and again till it lays in pieces, and Japan is saved.

Missionary Graveyard

2006-06-05T00:11:00.000-07:00

It's a beautiful land with beautiful people. It's called the "land of the rising sun." And it's lost. It's history, culture, socio-economic setting, language, religious history, and more simply resist the gospel. It's called the Mount Everest of missions because it is insanely hard to climb. It's called the missionary graveyard because many well trained, prayed up, sincere Christian missionaries have come and met with defeat and discouragement and returned home with their dreams dashed. The blood of martyrs has soaked this land for centuries and many Japanese pastors, facing insurrmountable odds, have lost a vision for reaching their country.

I can't tell you how excited I am that God has allowed me to be here. I know that I am part of God's passion to reach this country. I'm eager to allly with those with a radical commitment to make a difference here. I also challenge young leaders who aren't looking for safe or sane...and are willing to follow Christ into the teeth of a fierce spiritual struggle. It's time for another generation to start the climb and to charge into battle for the souls of this beautiful country. If you do...I'll be waiting to help any way that I can.

It will put us in our grave...

2006-05-16T18:53:00.000-07:00

Do you know what "charismatic" and "conservative" have in common? They are both NOT found in the Bible. Those who draw battle lines in the name of the Holy Spirit so miss the point. All that is needed is an honest look at scripture. The Bible clearly states that the Holy Spirit indwells all believers and empowers them to live for Christ. They are endowed with gifts of His choosing that enable him/her to become like Christ and assist others in becoming like Christ as well. The gifts haven't ceased and not everyone gets every gift. The Bible (authored by the aforementioned Spirit) also clearly states that the gifts must be used within Biblical parameters so as to keep the focus on the Giver of the gifts and the priority of love and unity of the body. Is there room for intelligent biblical discussion on the minor points? Yes. Is there reason to divide over this? Only if someone goes beyond the truth of scripture. In the end we must be people thoroughly committed to knowing and living God's Word AND fully surrendered to and open to the power of the Holy Spirit as He fills, leads, empowers, endows, and transforms us. Suspend your biases about "charismatics" and "conservatives" and be guided by the Word and empowered by His Spirit.

When You Believe...

2006-05-01T00:17:00.000-07:00

Jesus held those who exhibited radical faith in high regard. He made statements like "your faith has made you well", "your faith is great", "be it done according to your faith." He also corrected by saying, "Oh you of little faith." In another place it says that He didn't do many miracles in one region because of unbelief. Jesus seems to be saying that God is willing to work as much as we are willing to believe. When you truly trust God...it activates His presence and power in your life.

Then....everything changes.

You now do life moment by moment with respect to the God who now fills you and leads you. You walk with humble confidence and a deep sense of peace rooted in His almighty power and infinite love. God is so real to you...you see everything, and I mean EVERYTHING, in view of God's ability and not your own. It's this faith that turns shepherd boys into giant killers, simple fishermen into world changers, and every disciple of Christ into an irresistable force on the spiritual battlefield. Jesus said it this way..."if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you. (Matt. 17:20b) Kill a giant or move a mountain today for God's glory.

Vanquished but Dangerous

2006-04-23T00:50:00.000-07:00

He is very real and he hates you. He prowls about like a lion seeking someone to devour. He waits till you are weak and attacks at the most opportune time. He comes as an angel of light and never, ever fights fair. He uses lies and deceit to blind you. He has the experience of thousands of years of spiritual combat. He never sleeps, he never quits, and he always hates. Yet...your sword can parry every one of his lies, your shield of faith can deflect every one of his flaming arrows, your obedience can send him fleeing, your prayers can stop his progress. Jesus defeated him on the cross, prayed God's protection over you in the battle, and assigned you take him on. When a disciple walks in the power of the Spirit, equipped with the armor of God, saturated with God's Word, and focussed on His Kingdom, he cannot be beaten. But watch out! You drop your guard and this vanquished foe becomes very dangerous. He can't take your soul, but he will neutralize your influence in this world and kill you if he can.

Advanced Training or Not?

2006-04-13T21:34:00.000-07:00

If God has called you to a lifetime of serving Him it seems prudent to invest 3 years to get a Masters of Divinity (or some such) degree from the best institution you can find. There are some very rare, high-gifted leaders that can excel without advanced training. And they often make the innocent mistake of thinking everybody can do it like they did. I honestly believe it is their humility that drives the idea that they are no different than anyone else....but everyone else knows different. When a called person spends time with an accomplished spiritual swordsman, they will reach another level. Seminary doesn't give you character, it's not to be used to "clarify" a call, or build passion for Christ. You should go into seminary with those things. What it will do is sharpen your sword and your sword skills. You will be affected by the deep love for the Lord Jesus Christ in the faculty, their continued service to their churches, their passion for the lost, and the excellence with which they handle God's Word. The battle needs men and women who love the Lord Jesus Christ, are surrendered to the power of the Spirit and know how to wield a dangerous sword. Find a place with master swordsmen and level up.

Accurate Truth, Sharp Sword

2006-04-08T14:45:00.000-07:00

"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth."
2 Timothy 2:15

It is vital to develop the skill of accurate biblical interpretation and application. Since God's truth defines reality it is essential to get it right. We need to learn to bring surrendered and obedient hearts and to partner with the Holy Spirit as He guides us to all truth. Also essential to this is the ability to suspend our own biases and pre-conceptions and to hear God's voice with a trusting heart. More often than not we "color" our interpretation with our own opinions and thus go to war with blunt swords. We are ineffective and don't bear lasting fruit. We don't want men's ideas that are supported by scripture. We want to hear God's mind and heart and allow Him to transform our very lives from the innermost being to our actions. Let's be diligent. Let's work hard at the skill of bibilical interpretation and application. Let's keep it fresh, real, practical, and power-filled. Go onto the spiritual battlefield with a razor sharp sword, for His glory.

Ardent Love for the Savior

2006-03-19T22:54:00.000-08:00

One of the most observable qualities in a disciple is their sincere and deep love for God and their all-consuming love for the Lord Jesus Christ. They bow to no-thing or no-one but to the King of Kings. They live out their lives as a passionate expression for their affection for their Savior. They attend to every duty motivated by their ardent desire to please their Master. No words can fully capture the love that fills their hearts, no action can possibly encompass the full feeling of adoration they feel for their God. This love flies high above any devotion to human relationships or duty to any human institution or even culture. It is an essential strand that defines a disciple. Their lives declare very simply, "I love God with all that I am...I am a disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ."

The Fellowship of Warriors

2006-03-11T14:08:00.000-08:00

Jesus prayed that we would be ONE as He and the Father were ONE. Paul also said to be of the "same mind and the same purpose." Jesus even said that the world would identify us as His followers by our ONEness. There is nothing quite like a fellowship of warriors intent on advancing God's Kingdom TOGETHER. When a cadre of spiritual warriors walks in step onto the battlefield filled the Holy Spirit and hearts beating with the heart of God...they are unstoppable. Let's strive for ONEness. Let's unify our fellowships around the truth of God's Word and the clear mission of Jesus Christ, and maintain deep love for one another. Let's stand ready to move as ONE when the Master gives the order.

Tsuchizaki Gloria Chapel - A Dangerous Church

2006-03-10T19:56:00.000-08:00

There's no doubt that David (my translator) and I were very blessed by spending a week with the brothers and sisters of Gloria Chapel. We found a church family that loves each other, loves God with enthusiasm, and is led by a great man of God (Matsuyama-Sensei) who filled our time with laughter, encouragement, and a vision for Japan. Be sure to pay them a visit when you are in or near Akita. They filled a room with a great group of servant leaders both young and old.
They have a Gospel Choir program for both children and adults. Their services are a good blend of contemporary and traditional music. The Sr. Pastor is filled with enthusiasm, good humor, and a deep love for God and for Japan. I was especially impressed with his prayerful heart and great vision for revival in his country. He and his family have patiently labored, loved, and endured through every season. Their church facility is one block from the Tsuchizaki station (a 10 minute train ride from town). They will definitely be a church that makes an impact for the Kingdom...that makes them dangerous. Special thanks to Akiko and Tamiko whose risk-taking faith made this conference possible! We'll see you again soon!

Dangerous Disciples

2006-02-24T21:44:00.000-08:00

Sent by the King of the universe, indwelt by God Himself, protected by His prayer, empowered by His Spirit, granted ultimate victory, carrying an eternity changing message, willing to die at His bidding...disciples young and old are just plain dangerous! They fight in groups, they call heaven their true home, they give up all things for the Kingdom and for love of their King. They love the lost, encourage the weak, and honor the faithful. They live without fear, are dauntless in the face of the enemy, and charge into battle with no hesitation. Their prayers move mountains, their words destroy lies, their hands bring healing. All the dark forces of the enemy shake in fear when just one...just one spiritual warrior takes the field against them. They are dangerous. They are disciples of Jesus Christ.