ASK, Inc.

2008 Newsletters
from Dr. Stoll

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2008 Newsletters

1st Quarter: What is Causing All the Turmoil?
2nd Quarter: Thirteen Things One Should Know About Christians

3rd Quarter: Will Change Do Us Good?

4th Quarter: A Fulfilled Life, Guaranteed

 

WHAT IS CAUSING ALL THE TURMOIL?

John H. Stoll, Ph.D.

Executive Director, ASK, Inc.

            In looking over the many and varied situations in the world today, one cannot but realize it is in constant turmoil, that seemingly never goes away, but rather increases almost daily.  What is causing this distress among nations, or who is behind it all?

             From a worldly point of view, there are many thoughts about it, none of which seem to provide a reasonable answer. The media has analyses, authors write many books on the subject, talk show hosts constantly try to evaluate it, but no one has even the right answer, and certainly not the solution. Where does one go to find out the whys and wherefores of what is going on in the world today? There is only one definitive answer, and that is found in what the Bible says.  It is the only absolute guide to help us understand not only what we see, but what will eventually come to pass in the days ahead. Therefore, it is imperative to look into God’s word for answers. 

            In Luke 21:25-28, it tells us that just before God comes to judge the world, there will be signs in the heavenly bodies, and on the earth distress among nations with perplexity, and the sea and waves roaring. Along with that it also says that mankind will be full of fear, “For the powers of Heaven will be shaken”. Over this past generation we have seen evidences of all these things that are enumerated in this text, and on an ever increasing crescendo. Consequently, it is proper to ask what’s coming next, and when, if ever, will it end?  The Bible provides the answers to all these questions.

             The past century saw two world wars, plus numerous other lesser wars in various countries. World War one was supposed to end all wars, but it only spawned more conflicts.  Why? The answer is found in 2 Timothy 3:1-7, in which it tells us “That in the last days perilous times shall come. For mankind shall be lovers of SELF”. This is the key; mankind is incurably selfish, whether it is on a personal level, or on a national plane. And, all the problems from day one have come from this common cause. The conclusion to all these things is that someday God will bring it all to a climax in His ultimate judgment of individuals and the nations of the world. The Bible states this definitely, wherein it says, “That all the world may be brought under the judgment of God” (Romans 3:19). The world is totally oblivious of the impending judgment, and makes plans for decades ahead, as if all will continue to go on as is. (Note: 2 Peter 3:3-7). 

            As God looks down on the kingdom of mankind, the Psalmist noted that, “God sitting in the kingdom of Heaven, laughs, for the Lord shall scoff at the nations.” ( Psalms 2:4) Why? Because of their pride, selfishness, and wickedness. The world as we know it, will never come to an end (Isaiah 45:17; Ephesians 3:21). However, the world as we understand it today, will endure the ultimate destruction of mankind, and Jesus Christ, the greater son of David will rule over all the world throughout eternity. (Luke 1:33; Revelation 19:15). All of this was predicted in the Bible, and fulfilled prophecy up to this day, has absolutely come to pass, so we may confidently trust the Bible, that what is predicted to come, will ultimately become a reality. We can trust the absolute truth of the Bible. Did not Jesus say, “Heaven and earth may pass away, but my words shall not pass away (Matthew 24:35).

            Much of the consternation and confusion in the world today, has been brought on by Satanic influence. The Bible tells us that “God is not the author of confusion” (1 Corinthians 14:33), but that the Devil is, masquerading as “An Angel of light”, as well as “His servants disguise themselves as servants of righteousness” (2 Corinthians 11:14,15), in order to deceive the people of the world. He has done a great work of deception among the peoples and nations of the world, so his influence, coupled with the innate selfishness of human nature, has produced all the sin and conflict we see today, in individuals, families, governments, nations, etc. Because mankind is incurably religious, Satan does not try to eliminate religion from society, but he deceives people by diverting their spiritual longings to false religions, cults, isms, etc.  Such a seemingly innocent element as Yoga, which purportedly is to help people in their exercises, is in reality, Hinduism in a deceptive cover, in order to entrap and ultimately ensnare individuals. Satan has many tricks “up his sleeve”, since one deception may not entice a person, whereas another may. Satan never gives up on the spiritual vulnerability of people. Today there is a resurgence of Atheism flooding the world, through men who have written very compelling books exalting this philosophy, to the detriment of a belief in God  and Christianity. It also promotes the belief in Evolution, and mankind’s not needing God. These deceptions are being promoted not only in the philosophical and scientific world of ideas, but in our public schools and colleges. It is very attractive to young inquiring minds. 

             That is why it says in 1 John 4:1-4, that we are to, “Prove the spirits, because many false prophets are in the world”. To the Christian it says that, “He (i.e. the Holy Spirit) that indwells you, is greater than he (i.e. Satan) that is in the world”. Christians need to rebuke Satanic influence in their lives through deception, and trust the principles of the Bible.   

             Today, it seems if just about everyone senses that something of major catastrophic proportions will soon descend on this world’s system. The peoples of the world contemplate ultimate destruction, if something isn’t done to correct the path on which we are going (example: Global warming). To the Christian, the word of God is plain and understandable, and it is called, “Spiritual discernment” (1 Corinthians 2:14). The Bible teaches us of the wrath of God to come on the world (Revelation 3:10), but it also tells the Christians that they will be saved out of that judgment by the Rapture of Christians to Heaven (I Thessalonians 5:9).

             In Matthew 24:1-35, Jesus Christ provided an outline of things that would transpire just before He returned from Heaven, to set up his everlasting kingdom. He noted there would be wars, rumors of wars, famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in diverse places.  Then, He noted that all these things would be, “The birth pangs of sorrows” (v.8). As we reflect on the nature of things in our world, I believe one is able to say with confidence that the birth pains of the world are about a minute apart. Today, do we not live from crisis to crisis in our world, and doesn’t this portend the soon return of the Lord, to take Christians home to Heaven, and bring judgment upon the world? 

             If all this be true, and it is, then it behooves every Christian to live  their life for the Lord Jesus Christ, to be a testimony to those who do not know Him, and “look up for our redemption draws nigh (Luke 21:28). We can confidently say with the Apostle John, “Even so come quickly, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20).

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THIRTEEN THINGS ONE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CHRISTIANS

John H. Stoll, Ph.D.

Executive Director, ASK, Inc.

            In recent times, Biblical Christianity and Christians, have come under attack, by those who may be ignorant of what Biblically committed Christians believe, or by those who do not accept Christianity, and thereby attack it without foundation. So, it is important for all to know what truly is accepted Biblically, by born again Christians. There are thirteen essential elements of truth, that are set forth in the Bible, and generally accepted by Christians, regardless of Church or denominational persuasion. 

1) Evangelical Christians (EC) believe in the TRUTH of Scripture, and the way of eternal life, as guided by scripture (John 3:16,36).

 2) ECs, believe in the fundamentals (i.e. principles) of the Bible, but are not  “Fundamentalists” as associated with extremists in other religions or even within Christianity. As accepted by EC, these principles are administrated by the Church (which is a form of legalism), or by the inner compulsion of the indwelling Holy Spirit (which is God’s grace). Regardless of motivation to follow them, they are from God, to all his believers.

 3)      ECs believe that Jesus Christ is the only way to life eternal after death (John14:6, Matthew 7:13,14). It is true, that the way to Heaven is narrow, as described by Jesus Christ. He is the authority, as to who enters his kingdom, not man. 

4)      ECs believe both the Old  and New Testaments are divinely inspired of God, and inerrant in the original manuscripts, of which we have authentic copies, See: 2 Peter 1:21. This does not mean that God “dictated” his revelation to the Prophets, but allowed them to write in their own style, as directed by the Holy Spirit. 

5)      ECs believe in the truthfulness of Old Testament history, as recorded in the Bible. Archaeology has helped to affirm the historicity of what was recorded, as well as geography, etc. Furthermore, Jesus put his approval on all the Old Testament (Luke 24:27,44). To reject the Old Testament, is to reject the veracity of Jesus himself. 

6)      ECs accept the philosophical and psychological principles of the Bible, along with the spiritual admonitions, as being as relevant for today, as when they were written, and absolutely correct in application and belief. 

7)      ECs believe in a creator God, who created the universe and sustains his creation, even today, and is sovereign over all the world, and mankind  (Genesis 1; Psalms 10:16; Psalms 19; Romans 13:1) . 

8)      ECs believe in science and what it continues to discover, though it is still searching for final truth. The Bible is way beyond today’s science, and it has final truth, when it speaks of science. When science ultimately may come to final truth, it will be consonant with the Bible and they will be one. Though the Bible is not essentially a book about science, when it does speak on the subject, it speaks with finality (See: Isaiah 40:22, where it speaks of the “circle” of the earth, when at the time the Old Testament was written, the prevailing opinion was that the earth was flat).

 9)      ECs believe the Bible is not a book on HOW God created the universe, just stating that he did, and that he alone is in control of it, and guides it (Genesis 1, Psalms 19).

 10)   ECs believe the Bible is a book of two basic sets of information from God to his human creation. 1) Essential information, and 2) Fragmentary information. The Essential information is a complete revelation from God to us, who are his creation, as to how to live in the here and now. It consists of three essential elements, A) The entrance and problem of SIN; B)  The need for and way of SALVATION; and C) The way of SANCTIFICATION (i.e. holy living) of life.  These three ways are consistent with Biblical principles. The Fragmentary information consists of only partial revelation from God to mankind, in order to clarify and help us understand the essentials. There are many “open ended” elements in scripture, which we do not understand, and probably never will in this life, and are reserved to God alone (Note: Deuteronomy 29:29).

 11)   ECs emphasize FAITH, which is essential to becoming a Christian (See: Hebrews 11:6). When one takes that “leap of faith”, then they realize that their faith, the truth of scripture, and what they have done, is reasonable.

 12)   ECs are not desirous of setting up a “Theocratic Kingdom” in this country, or any country in the world, of which ECs have been accused of desiring. They take the command of God (Matthew 28:19,20) to be a witness for God to searching people, who want the TRUTH. The Kingdom of God will someday come, brought in by the return of Jesus Christ (Luke 1:33; Revelation 11:15, 19:16; 1 Corinthians 15:24-28), who will then rule the world.

13)   ECs believe the responsibility of Pastors and Churches, is to preach the Gospel of good news, that God was in and through Jesus Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, and that collectively, the responsibility is to proclaim this to the world (2 Corinthians 5:14-20). The Church and its Pastors are not to politicize their mission, but to proclaim the word of God, in “Thus saith the Lord” (2 Timothy 4:1-5). Today, the Church has “watered down” its mission, to make the word of God acceptable to people, so as seekers, they feel good.

These thirteen elements comprise the Biblical manifesto, accepted by “born again” Christians, totally apart from any denomination, or personal theological position, and universally applied to every individual. These principles come from God, as revealed in Holy Scripture. Critics have distorted or rejected them, yet the TRUTH of God still stands, and will forever.   

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WILL CHANGE DO US GOOD?

John H. Stoll, Ph.D.
Executive Director, ASK, Inc.

             In the coming election for a new President of our country, much has been made of the word, “Change”. Not much has been said as to what the change will mean. So, it is reasonable to ask, what does this mean for the people, and will it really do us good?

             Our Founding Fathers wrote a Constitution that has stood us in good stead over 200 years.  There has been much controversy over interpreting it as a “strict constructionist” document, or is it an “evolving document”, that changes with the will of the people. If we view it as the absolute document for our country, then it becomes the objective criteria for behaviors of the citizens, whereas, if it is viewed as an evolving one, then it is evaluated by the lowest common denominator of behaviors of the citizens, much to the detriment of our future as a freedom loving country. In the past it has been the bedrock of principled behaviors for the citizens. Will change, whatever it means, be in the best interest of future generations of our citizens?

            The basic biblical principle on evolving change is found in Proverbs 22:28, “Do not remove the ancient boundary, which your Fathers have set”, and in Jeremiah 6:16, “Stand by the ways, and see, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is, and walk in it.” If one applies this principle to our Constitution, it is then understood as being an objective document, written by biblically principled men (though not all were Christian), who wrote it with the understanding of the nature of mankind, with the need for checks and balances, because of the selfish and sinful nature of human beings. Therefore, the basic principles of our Constitution ought never to change, though methodology may always be up for consideration.

            Today, the basic issue in our country is principle versus relativism, that is, do our governing bodies interpret and apply the law, based on constitutional principles, or is the law applied, as any body or individual determines its application?  We see a wide variation in judicial activity in this regard, as the laws are not equally applied everywhere. So, if change becomes the predominate factor in the coming election, what does this mean for the citizens of our country, depending on who is voted into office? Will we get a government based on strict understanding of the principles of our Constitution, or will we continue to treat it as an evolving document, that will bend to the will of the people?

            An illustration of family behaviors may suffice to see the point. The generation that grew up during the Depression and WWII, did not enjoy all the material blessings we have today, So, that generation brought forth the next generation, and wished their children to have what they had lacked. The result was providing material things, with both parents working to provide what they had lacked, at the expense of instilling proper character development in their children, by example as well as by precept. That generation had material things, but lacked character development. Now, that generation produced the youth of today, who, by and large have been deficient in character development, because their parents had no knowledge of how self centered and basically sinful their children would become. And, when their behaviors have become lawless, parents have been at a loss to understand why, since they  had not had the benefit of character development from their parents (i.e depression children), because they were too busy working to provide material things, rather than developing character training. So, in two generations we have lost our national character, which by and large was written into our Constitution, with its checks and balances, due to selfishness and sinful behaviors, inherent within each person.

             Change for change sake, will not do it. Character development, based on unchangeable principles (i.e. the Constitution) is the only way for our nation to set a standard for national behaviors, as well as for parents to teach and guide their children, in a manner that will help them to grow into responsible and principled adults, as well as for them to ultimately become good parents to succeeding generations. This will be the only way in which our country can be safeguarded in the years ahead.

             In the current electioneering, we hear much about change because of problems in Iraq, high gas prices, immigration issues, taxes, etc., and though these are important, they are not the primary consideration. In Proverbs 4:23 it says, “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life.” A person’s character determines that person’s choices, and those choices have consequences, good or bad. The character of Presidents, Congressmen, Judges, etc. all have an impact on the citizens of our country in their decisions. In Proverbs 4:7 it says, “ Wisdom is the principled thing (i.e. to know how to make right choices); therefore get wisdom”, and that produces proper change.

             As we come to election day, may we pray, trust, and vote according to wisdom that God grants each one, so that our country will be led by principled people, based on principles that will bode well for the citizens, as well as future generations.

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  A FULFILLED LIFE, GUARANTEED

John H. Stoll, Ph.D.
Executive Director, ASK, Inc.

            Everyone desires to enjoy a fulfilled life. Hope, as to future events, is that which compels one to press on, trusting that what lies ahead will bring the desired fullness to the end of life.  Whether that is accomplished is based on assumptions, choices, circumstances, etc. So, for most it is chancy, even if one plans out their life very determined to follow a well designed pattern. Is there such an element as a guarantee that whatever one’s future holds, that they will be able to say at the end of life, I’ve had a fulfilled life? The answer is an unequivocal, yes. In order to bring the question and its answer to a positive conclusion, a number of things must become apparent.

            First, everyone has certain basic assumptions in life. And, the elements of one’s assumptions provide a foundation for one’s design for their life: choices that are made, such as education, profession, marriage, where to live, etc. As one designs these elements life continues on, years pass, and all the elements coalesce together to bring experiences in life, that are either fulfilling, or devastating.   The finest thing a person is able to say of themselves at the end of life is, I have enjoyed a fulfilled life. The worst thing one may say is, I wish I had it to do over again, I would do differently. Therefore, since the future for every person is chancy, is there any guarantee that a young person, regardless of family background, etc. will be able, with confidence, to look to the future with an assured hope to ultimately be able to enjoy a fulfilled life. Again, the answer is, yes. How is this possible?

            Let us reason according to a basic assumption that one must make in life, and that is, to believe that there is a God, who created and sovereignly rules over the universe; that He created every person with His moral  character, that He desires fellowship with every person, that He has given everyone a free will, and that He desires everyone to enjoy fullness of life. This is categorically stated by His son, Jesus Christ in John 10:10, when he said, “I am come that you may have life, and that you may have it more abundantly.” Now, to accept this statement as true, it follows that a person must accept two elements: 1) That Jesus Christ is the revealed son of God (2 Cor. 4:6), and 2) That the Bible is  God’s revealed handbook, or manual, for life, to us who are His creation.  Illustration: the Bible is to the individual, as the automobile manufacturer’s handbook, is to the car. If one desires his car to run well, and serve him a long time, then wisdom determines that the manual is to be followed. When that is done, then the manufacturer guarantees the car. Likewise, with a person: when one follows the manual of instruction for life, i.e. the principles for living, as outlined in the Bible, then God guarantees  that person with a fulfilled life, regardless of longevity. Each person’s fulfillment is different, since each individual is a special and unique creation of God. There are no two persons alike, and fulfillment is an individual thing.

            Now comes a question: what if the Bible is not absolutely true, that Jesus Christ was not God in human flesh, that he did not die and rise again, and the history of the Old Testament is full of myths, fables, and that it describes things that did not occur? If so, then how can one rely on what Jesus said, and thus our chances for a fulfilled life, are chancy, just like everyone else?  The answer to these questions is threefold. First, the Bible is true, as recorded. Archaeology over the past two hundred years has substantiated many historical elements as recorded in the Bible, that were criticized as never having happened.  Each passing year brings to light historical events in the Bible that continue to be substantiated by discoveries. Second, the evidence for the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, is overwhelming, more than any other person or event in history. Third, Jesus Christ himself, put his approval on the historicity of all of the Old Testament, and if one discounts its history, then one puts a question on the veracity of Christ, himself.

            But, there is an even more compelling evidence to believe what Jesus said concerning every individual, as to his promise of fullness of life. Over the past two thousand years of history of the Christian faith, two vital elements have stood out: 1) The continuing truth of the Bible, and its dissemination throughout the world, as the number one best seller of all time,  It has brought light, life, peace, joy, contentment, hope, and fullness of life to millions of people over this time; 2) Over the past two thousand years, countless millions of people have placed their faith and trust in Jesus Christ and the Bible. They have lived by its precepts trusted its word, used it as a guide for life, raised their children by its principles, and even sacrificed their lives for its truth. What a testimony to the validity of its contents. So, when Jesus stated what he did, in relation to fullness of life, it seems reasonable to follow God’s word, the Bible, to live by its principles, and to trust God for the future, knowing that he desires every person to enjoy life to the full.

            Allow me to add an additional personal testimony. Over 80 years of my life, I can honestly say, I have had a fulfilled life. I have trusted Jesus Christ as my personal savior for my sins, I have studied and personally investigated many avenues of education and understanding (I have a degree in Chemistry, with adjunct in Mathematics and Physics. I have two graduate degrees in Theology and a doctorate in Psychology. I have studied Philosophy, Archaeology, History. I have been an Apologist for the truth of God’s word. I have taught in college/seminary all my professional life interweaving these disciplines in most of these areas in one way or another), and I can truthfully state that not once has either God or the Bible let me down, and I have always found the Bible to be true. In John 17:17, Jesus said, “Thy word is truth” Again, in John 8:32 he said, “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” True freedom, to live a full life, is found in accepting the truth of the Bible. When the truth of God’s word is accepted, its principles followed and committed to, then one is both free and fulfilled. What more can one ask in life, than this?

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THE MISSION STATEMENT OF ASK, INC.

For 30 years, ASK, Inc. has stood for the above principles, both in its professional counseling, as well as its Bible teaching. Our ministry to people, Christians or not, is administrated in Christian love, and based on these thirteen principles. The goal of our service for the Lord, has been plainly stated in every newsletter. We make no apology for our commitment to God’s revealed word, the Bible, and  our experience over these many years, has proven to be true and beneficial, to all who have used our services, in counseling and/or Bible teaching. By God’s grace, we shall continue to carry on for Him.

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