I am thankful that after many years of playing in groups and bands, the Lord enabled me to produce a solo album with all original songs I wrote, entitled "Today and Yesterday, Yesterday and Today". The title reflects the songs - 7 newly recorded in 2021, and 7 previously recorded over the past three decades (with different bands). The music was primarily recorded in small home studios on a "shoe string" budget, yet I am happy with the end result. The styles range from pop, rock, and soul - all with lyrics that glorify God and encourage the believer. If you would like to purchase an MP3 album download, go to this link: scottpeterson.misite.co ~ Peace and love my friends!
Tuesday, December 7, 2021
Friday, October 29, 2021
VIRTUAL CHURCH REALITY
One thing the pandemic has taught churches all over the world is the importance of quality online content for their ministries. After the lockdown hit nearly two years ago, pastors were suddenly scrambling to update their web sites, purchase web cameras, and set up Facebook accounts to enable Sunday services to be live streamed. In short order YouTube was inundated with teaching videos and worship gatherings, and Zoom meetings became the norm for church staff meetings and Bible studies. Three months into the pandemic, Barna research group reported that 96% of pastors indicated they were streaming their services online. However, a closer look revealed that 32% of Christians who typically attended a live worship service at least once a month had not watched any online service during that time. Some churches saw a significant rise in their number of online followers, increasing their reach beyond their city limits to viewers around the globe, while others ultimately shut down due to lack of support. Using these metrics, we can surmise that greater emphasis on the online worship experience has gained new followers, but lost some old ones - which is disconcerting.
To be sure, for all of the annoyances related to the internet, the advancement of the Gospel through technology is certainly a blessing. For some, online worship may be a helpful solution to taking in a service, when work schedules or travel plans interfere with physically attending the church. In the case of the lockdown, online services became the only option to worship with fellow believers, other than those in our immediate "bubble". The point of this article is not to rail against online ministry, which has proven to be helpful and effective. Rather, I want to drill down on what the Bible has to say about gathering as the family of God. Hebrews 10:24 says "let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works". Ok, we can certainly accomplish this online; Zoom meetings, text messages, emails - all of which can be used to encourage each other in our faith. But then verse 25 goes on to say, "not forsaking the assembling of yourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting (encouraging) one another, and so much the more as you see the Day (of Christ's return) approaching." It's tough to get around the Bible's instruction to physically come together - though possibly an argument could be made that being "together" online is the next best thing.
As a person, a Christian, and a local church pastor I truly believe that nothing else compares to in-person gatherings where we can worship live together. As nice as it may seem to worship in front of the tv in our pajamas, God moves in powerful ways when we come together "in one accord" (Acts 2), and He created us for fellowship - both with Himself, and with one another! This is why solitary confinement is such a powerful tool of deterrent for inmates incarcerated in our prison system today; the lack of social interaction can drive a person to madness. Thankfully when businesses, churches, and sporting events were suspended during the height of the pandemic, connectivity through technology helped to ease the frustration, providing the opportunity for people to virtually enjoy large events - not to mention keeping in touch with loved ones who we were separated from. Social media helped bridge the gap in our relational needs, yet somehow failed to fill the gap fully. At least most people were still able to connect personally in small circles and one on one, though the same could not be said of our senior community shut up in care facilities. It was a time of great excitement and celebration when restrictions were finally lifted, and we could come together again!
In short, I am thankful for the quality online Christian resources and expressions of worship that we enjoy today (of which this blog is a part!) God is using these tools to extend the reach of the local church, and touch many souls for His kingdom. That being said, I believe online services should serve as an onramp for people to get involved in a local church, especially when live gatherings are available. We don't simply attend church to see what we can get from it; we go in order to give to others as well - hope, encouragement, care, prayer, and camaraderie as we worship together as the family of God. The Lord is the one who designed the church, and He commissioned us to work together in love until He returns!
Thursday, October 28, 2021
Monday, March 16, 2020
GOD'S PROMISES FOR PERILOUS TIMES
1. GOD PROMISES A WISE PATH.
Psalm 119:104,105 “Through Your precepts I get understanding ... Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light on my path.”
All throughout scripture there is practical instruction on how to be safe, happy, and blessed. It is up to us to read His good instruction, then apply it to our lives in order to reap the blessings.
2. GOD PROMISES PROTECTION.
saying: my plan will take place, and I will do all my will.”
Friday, February 15, 2019
Monday, October 23, 2017
HOPING TO SEE THE KING
Friday, October 13, 2017
TEN TIMELESS PROMISES OF GOD
1. DIRECTION. Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."
~ When we commit to live for Jesus Christ as Lord and trust in Him fully, He guides the events of our lives and leads us daily - keeping us on his perfect path which he has preordained for us to experience.
2. GOODNESS. Romans 8:28 "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose."
~ When we love God and live for His purpose, we can rest assured that He works all things - the positive and the negative - to produce goodness in our lives!
3. PROVISION. Philippians 4:19 "And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
~ It is wonderful to know that our Heavenly Father promises to supply all of our need (not our greed), regardless of difficult circumstances or mounting odds against us. He takes care of His own.
4. PROVIDENCE. Isaiah 46:9-10 "Remember the former things of old, for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me. Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things that are not yet done, saying 'My council shall stand, and I will do all My pleasure.'"
~ There is only one God, and He is on the Throne! He gives mankind free-will, often resulting in harmful choices. Nevertheless, God is in control, fulfilling His providential master plan throughout the ages.
5. WISDOM. James 1:5 "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach., ad it will be given to Him."
~ God provides heavenly wisdom and direction, both for difficult and confusing circumstances, and for everyday life. All we have to do is ask Him in prayer to lead us, and believe Him for the answer!
6. DELIVERANCE. Psalm 91:14 "Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My Name."
~ We do face battles as believers in Jesus Christ. However, God is our refuge and fortress. Even if we are tested in order to help us grow, know that He also delivers us in His perfect way and perfect time.
7. SUCCESS. Joshua 1:8 "This book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success."
~ A simple yet powerful Kingdom principle; obedience to God's Word brings blessing; disobedience brings destruction. The Bible is God's blueprint to build a happy life - both for now and eternity.
8. CHURCH. Matthew 16:18 "And I also say that you are Peter, and on this Rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it."
~ Regardless of the enemy's strategies and attacks, more and more people are coming to know Jesus Christ as Lord. The Kingdom of God will advance, and Jesus will return for His Bride - the Church!
9. HEALING. Isaiah 53:5 "But He was wounded for our transgression, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed."
~ Jesus Christ paid for our salvation through His shed blood on the cross. Through faith in Him we have forgiveness, salvation and healing - body, mind, heart, and soul. Sometimes believers receive physical healing in this present life, but all of God's children are promised complete healing and happiness when we receive transformed bodies in His glorious presence! (See Romans 8:18-25)
Monday, May 15, 2017
THE CALL
Thursday, July 21, 2016
TESTING AND TRIUMPH
Friday, April 29, 2016
WHY DO WE BELIEVE?
Thursday, April 21, 2016
WORLD GONE MAD
Twenty years ago if you would have described to me what society would look like in 2016, I don't know if I would have believed you. As a Canadian/American dual citizen, I care about both countries, and pray for a spiritual revival. The fact of the matter is, right now both Canada and America have relegated Biblical morality to the sidelines, instead embracing relative morality and pop-culture ideology. Psalm 33:12 tells us, "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord". In 1962 the U.S Supreme Court ruled that prayer had no place in public schools, and later determined that the 10 Commandments did not belong in judicial courthouses. These nine appointed judges were not voted in by the people they govern, yet they wield the most power - even more than the president. Sad that the advice from our founding president George Washington was ignored, as he declared, "It is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favour." Make no mistake, this was no ambiguous deity he was referring to, as many pluralistic ("all roads lead to heaven") religious leaders today might claim there to be. No, George Washington believed in the triune Godhead; God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son, and the blessed Holy Spirit.
Where do things go from here? The sad fact of the matter is, without God's Word as a moral compass to guide governments, the world flounders in chaos and confusion. Since Biblical absolutes have been rejected, then moral relativity is accepted. According to today's pop psychology, who's to say what is right from wrong - the old antiquated Judeo-Christian guidelines? Legislators in their magnificent wisdom threw that out years ago. Who then is qualified to determine good and bad - You? Me? Morning talk show hosts? Hollywood celebrities? University professors? Politicians? It is obvious that these people deal with the same struggles, failures, and limitations as the rest of us. Only God is perfect and all-knowing. However, when people refuse to follow His wisdom, then the policies of society which get put into place are anyone's game.
Tuesday, April 19, 2016
REACH OUT MUSIC VIDEO
Thursday, October 29, 2015
NINE DAYS IN INDIA
Saturday, December 6, 2014
THE EXODUS OF TRUTH
The Positives: EXODUS: GOD'S AND KINGS displays faith, courage, and perseverance on behalf of God's chosen ones. The basic components of the Exodus account are in place, and God's divine intervening power on behalf of the Israelites is undeniable. Certainly the grand cinematography and special effects are awesome, and Christian Bale is a strong presence on screen. The battle sequences are excellent, and the drama at times is engrossing. Viewers are transported into ancient Egypt, and caught up in the plight of the Hebrew race. The movie also provides a platform to discuss the Bible with cinema-goers who otherwise may have never given it a second thought.
The Negatives: Much like the bizarre big screen version of Noah, directed by Darren Aronofsky, in Ridley Scott's movie we have noticeable departures from the Biblical account. An 11 year old boy was designated to portray the "messenger" for Yahweh the Lord, Moses sustains a head injury which aids in his faith, and his reluctance to lead the Jewish people segues into arguing with God at certain points - tending to lose a sense of reverence and awe which I'm sure the actual Moses maintained. In addition, some of the supernatural plagues of God are explained in more environmentally scientific terms - apparently to make the whole series of events seem more plausible.
Does God, who created the entire universe, need any help in sending out insects or parting water? No! This is another example of a humanistic approach in dealing with spiritual subject matter. In our world today we have churches that are watering down doctrines of the Bible in an attempt to be more culturally relevant and socially acceptable. The truth of the matter is, God is who He is, and does what He does - all to accomplish His divine plan and purpose. His love, power, righteousness, and providence remain real and relevant today. His Word never changes. God told Moses in Exodus 19:3-5, "You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles wings, and brought you to Myself. Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to me". Hebrews 13:8 tells us, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever."
As followers of Jesus Christ who believe in His Word, we need to stand firm in our faith now more than ever. I am thankful for the certainty of God's Word, proven trustworthy again and again throughout history. I am also glad that the truth of God's Word can be shared with millions of people world-wide through the media arts - including cinema, though imperfections are inevitable. If you choose to see Ridley Scott's movie, then I hope that this posting will give you some insight as to what you should expect. Alternatives which are more faithful to the Biblical text include Mark Burnett's depiction in his miniseries, The Bible. For me, the grandfather movie of epic Bible adventures would have to be Cecil B. Demille's 1956 Academy Award winning, The 10 Commandments, featuring Yul Brynner and the great Charlton Heston. You can't beat the classics!
Monday, November 3, 2014
CHRISTIAN MUSIC PIONEERS
Wednesday, January 1, 2014
Thursday, June 20, 2013
FACING DOWN THE GIANT
The army of Israel gathered at the Valley of Elah to face the Philistines, who were determined to destroy them. All in all a pretty fair fight, until their giant champion from Gath named Goliath stepped forward. Imagine the sheer terror of the Jewish people as they took in the awesome size of this man; standing over nine feet tall, wearing a coat of mail weighing one hundred and twenty-five pounds, and carrying a spear the size of a weavers beam! No normal man could match his strength or ability - in the natural it was hopeless. However, there was one young shepherd who knew that He served a supernatural God, who no one could stand against. Of course the young man was David, who proceeded to convince King Saul to allow him to face this formidable foe. David then grabbed his sling, his shepherds bag, and five smooth stones. The scripture tells us in I Samuel 17 that David approached Goliath and declared, "I come to you in the name of the Lord of Hosts . . . this day the Lord will deliver you into my hand!" It is important to note that David didn't simply walk toward the giant, he ran! His faith was so firmly planted in the protection and power of God that he hurried toward the battle, and as his first stone sank deep into the Giants forehead, Goliath fell like a mighty tumbling tower. David proceeded to take the giants sword and slay him, giving the spark for the rest of the Jewish army to shout in triumph and pursue the Philistines to victory.
What is your giant today? It may be fear, sickness, disease, financial hardship, or family struggles. Whatever it may be, take it to the Lord through the prayer of faith, and trust Him to defeat the giant. James 5:16 tells us "The effective fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much." God will will guide you through the challenges, fully meet your need, and use you in a mighty way. When you start to feel overwhelmed and alone, remember that God is with you, and He will fight on your behalf! We can be assured as David boldly declared in I Samuel 17:47 - "The battle is the Lord's."
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
A BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW
Monday, February 21, 2011
THE END TIMES
Today as I post this article, the country of New Zealand just experienced a 6.3 sized quake, and 4 countries in the middle east are currently experience serious revolts - with Egypt having just overturned its government. Certainly many false prophets have appeared and led millions astray through false religions, and famines continue to claims millions of lives in the continents of Asia and Africa. The moral decline of our nation has been obvious and dramatic, with Biblical principles being pushed out by lobbyists and politicians, and the concept of "relative morality" becoming the norm in our society today. The formation of the European Union and United Nations have demonstrated the feasibility of a one world government, and the economic instability of the American dollar and the Euro creates a case for the concept of an international currency solution - a final solidification of the global marketplace. So with all of this calamity taking place and prophesies being fulfilled , what is the church called to do? What should our response be? The answer that Christ gave to us in Matthew 24 is clear and to the point; keep watch, be ready, and faithfully serve the Lord each day! Share his truth and show his love in a practical way to those around you, and live each day with eternity in mind.
No one except God the Father knows when Jesus the Son will return, but as we see the signs of the times, we can be confident that we are truly living in the end times - the last days before the second coming of Christ. He is returning to judge the earth and establish his reign with those who faithfully follow him (II Peter 3, Revelation 19-21). It is up to us to apply the instruction found in Colossians 3:23, and live "whole heartily, as unto the Lord." Jesus is coming soon - are you ready for his return?