tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5567965327752652582024-03-13T08:01:51.107-07:00Tata Ibadah, Liturgi dan Tulisan-tulisan KristenWorship Service, Liturgy and Christiani Script : coloring your worshipRev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.comBlogger240125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-65578727192296261802010-08-08T22:32:00.000-07:002010-08-12T09:27:27.812-07:00Does being a Christian mean that I should be patriotic?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TF-S0iU0o_I/AAAAAAAAAYo/vcgmwRSOzAE/s1600/worang.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TF-S0iU0o_I/AAAAAAAAAYo/vcgmwRSOzAE/s320/worang.jpg" /></a></div>The Bible is very clear that governments are established by God. Romans 13 tells us that all authority comes from God and that we must be in subjection to it. Verse 2 states,<br />
<br />
“Therefore he who resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God.”<br />
<br />
Paul explains that governments are a blessing, they keep the peace. Paul told Titus (3:1) to…<br />
<br />
“…remind them (the believers at Crete) to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed.”<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
If you desire to live for Christ then you will do your best to live in subjection to His ordained authority.<br />
<br />
Paul not only encouraged believers to obey governments, but also to pray for them. I Timothy 2:1-2 states,<br />
<br />
“First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quite life in all godliness and dignity.”<br />
<br />
Paul encourages us to live by the laws of the land and further to pray for our leaders. This is especially interesting since Paul was writing during the reign of emperor Nero, who was famous for persecuting Christians.<br />
However, patriotism often indicates more than mere obedience and prayer. For many, patriotism implies a deep commitment and love for their country; a “love it or leave it” attitude. Many Christians have associated loyalty to their nation (or nationality) with loyalty to God. “Christianity and Patriotism are synonymous terms,” said evangelist Billy Sunday, “and hell and traitors are synonymous.” Thus, one of America's most effective evangelists fell into the trap of confusing the Christian faith with the religion of American patriotism.<br />
<br />
Paul does not encourage this type of patriotism in his writings. In I Peter 2:11, while urging civil obedience, he refers to believers as “aliens and strangers” in an ungodly world. He understood that the Christian's citizenship is in heaven, not among the countries of the earth. We serve (and are loyal to) the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. No other allegiance is as important as our commitment to God.<br />
I, too, am proud of the United States. However, I also remember being extremely proud of my high school. As I cheered for our football team, I honestly felt that there was not a school in the entire world that was better than mine. When I entered college, I realized that all high schools are basically very similar. None are worthy of being elevated to a “supreme school” status.<br />
<br />
Perhaps this is the way it will be when we enter Heaven. We may feel blessed for living in America, but I doubt that we will feel any patriotic allegiance when we realize that our true commitment has belonged to God all the time. Standing before Christ, we will look around and see that He has blessed people from every part of the world throughout history. We will realize that (like the Sabbath) nations were created to serve man and not the other way around.<br />
<br />
<br />
Author: Mark Van Bebber of Films for Christ.<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-37170175056567649832010-08-04T23:38:00.000-07:002010-08-12T09:28:04.461-07:00Is oral sex biblically wrong within marriage?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFpcUL3qC9I/AAAAAAAAAYg/x2hVN4Xo-So/s1600/s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFpcUL3qC9I/AAAAAAAAAYg/x2hVN4Xo-So/s320/s.jpg" /></a></div><span id="goog_1386335606"></span><span id="goog_1386335607"></span>QUESTION: “My wife and I love the Lord with all our hearts, and we don't want to do anything to sin against Him. Our question is in the area of oral sex. Is it scripturally wrong for married couples?”<br />
------------------------------------------------<br />
No where does the Bible forbid it or discuss it. There is no biblical evidence that it is a sin against God for a husband and wife to express love for each other in this way. Even the book of Leviticus, which mentions many Old Testament sex-related prohibitions and rules for the Israelites, never mentions it. We see no reason to believe that expressing affection for one's mate in this way is forbidden or would necessarily harm one's walk with God.<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
We are aware that some have tried to make a biblical issue out of what parts of the body a married couple can and cannot kiss. In their minds, there is only only one biblical form of sexual expression in marriage, sexual intercourse. They attempt to defend their viewpoint on biblical grounds—trying to make it into a holiness issue. However, no where do we see Scripture putting such limits on the sexual relationship of a godly husband and wife, even Levitical priests (who were forbidden to do many things).<br />
<br />
Most knowledgeable and spiritually mature Christians realize that God is the author of sex and love, and every part and sensation of the human body, and that He intended the relationship between husband and wife to be loving, sensuous, joyful, creative and full of pleasure.<br />
<br />
Read the somewhat cryptic Song of Solomon from a lover's point of view. Using delicate, romantic language and metaphors, it describes a beautiful, affectionate, romantic, sensuous, joyful and passionate love between husband and wife. It seems to be speaking of the lovers tasting, eating and drinking of each other's bodies (Song of Songs 2:3; 4:16; 8:2). One cannot be sure what this means exactly, but certainly we see no evidence here or elsewhere that God is concerned with what part of their bodies might be touching, including where they kissed their mate. (About the Song of Solomon, see the WebBible Encyclopedia http://ChristianAnswers.Net/dictionary/solomonsongof.html)<br />
<br />
God is concerned about your love for each other. He wants all Christians, including husbands and wives, to be kind to each other, patient, respectful and unselfish. Ultimate love is pure in motive and action. Follow that goal, and you are not likely to go wrong.<br />
What about Sodom?<br />
<br />
Perhaps you have heard some one claim that oral lovemaking in marriage as wrong by associating it with the ancient cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. This comparison is misguided and offensive. It is quite clear that Sodom's problems had nothing to do with how godly, loving marriage partners were expressing their affection for each other.<br />
<br />
To the contrary, there was a total lack of godly, loving, heterosexual marriage partners in Sodom (save Lot and his wife). We shall not name the many gross and demonically inspired evils that probably took place among the wicked there. It is better left unsaid. Suffice it to say that the list would sicken most people. “The men of Sodom were exceedingly wicked and sinful against the Lord” (Genesis 13:13). Serious students of the Bible and archaeology know that the kind of things that were going on at Sodom were done by extremely ungodly people, expressing enormous selfishness, total lack of love, extreme spiritual depravity, and major rebellion against God. In other words, the sex lives of godly husbands and wives was not an issue at these cities, nor did it have anything to do with its destruction.<br />
<br />
Although the Bible is silent on the specifics of what you have asked (apparently leaving it up to the mutual agreement of the marriage partners), it is not silent on sex in marriage. Conservative Christian marriage counselors Dr. Ed Wheat and Gloria Okes Perkins point out that…<br />
<br />
“…a biblical understanding of sex dispels false fears and inhibitions. …The Scriptures tell us clearly that the joyous sexual expression of love between husband and wife is God's plan. …Uninformed people have actually considered the Victorian view to be biblical because they think the Bible forbids all earthly pleasures. Certainly not! In fact, the Bible is far more 'liberated' concerning sex than untaught people realize. In God's view there is a mutuality of experience between husband and wife. Each has an equal right to the other's body. Each has not only the freedom but also the responsibility to please the other and to be pleased in return. …These basic principles concerning the enjoyment of sex in marriage are found in 1 Corinthians 7:3-5…<br />
The principle of need… a commandment, to meet our mate's sexual needs…<br />
The principle of authority… when we marry, we actually relinquish the right to our own body, and turn that authority over to our mate. …the wife's body now belongs to the husband. The husband's body now belongs to the wife. This means that we must love our mate's body and care for it as our own…<br />
The principle of habit… we must not cheat our partner by abstaining from the habit of sex, except by mutual consent for a brief time” [Love Life for Every Married Couple, pp. 70-73]. <br />
<br />
Copyright © 2001, Eden Communications, All Rights Reserved.<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-43093429566897309482010-08-04T23:28:00.000-07:002010-08-04T23:28:03.392-07:00"The Trap of Pornography"<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFpZ1JtA6LI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/J1KVttdgfwE/s1600/trap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFpZ1JtA6LI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/J1KVttdgfwE/s320/trap.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Trap</td></tr>
</tbody></table>—by Mark, age 22<br />
<br />
I don't remember the first time I went to church or the first time I kneeled down to pray, but I do remember the first time I ever saw a pornographic magazine.<br />
Sometime between my 5th and 7th birthdays, I discovered the trap of pornography. It was the early 80's and all that was around my father's house was his Penthouse magazines. My parents were divorced and I was at the beginning of the rocky and dirty road of sexual addiction.<br />
<br />
By the age of 8 I thought I knew all I needed to know about women. They were there for sexual pleasure, period. Of course, this wasn't something I outwardly admitted, but I wore the mask.<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
About the age of twelve I began to attend a local church group for young teens. I made some wonderful friends there and enjoyed the time I spend with them. Funny thing was, as soon as I would get home, I would wait for my mother to go to sleep. Then I would turn on the television to the Playboy channel (which was scrambled) and watch intently, hoping to somehow catch a glimpse of the couples on the screen. I had begun an absolutely horrible habit. I was masturbating for hours everyday, sometimes more than once.<br />
<br />
By the time I was 18 I left home, and my Internet. However my addiction to porn was SO strong that I snuck away from my friends and found myself browsing the selections of pornography magazines. At times I would feel guilty and unclean, but I never knew what it meant.<br />
However, after I gave my life to Jesus last year (when I was 21) my entire lifestyle changed out of desire to live according to Jesus' teaching. I suddenly knew that what I was doing was wrong and God gave me the strength to push it aside. But slowly…like a leaky faucet, sin slowly began to creep back into my unaware body. Before long I was masturbating again, but now I was ripped apart from the guilt of my obvious sin.<br />
<br />
One day I had just had enough and I decided to seek help. I found out there was a book out called "Every Man's Battle" that was written by two God fearing fellows that had followed a very similar path to mine. Over the course of time I realized that my sexual sin wasn't just with the Internet, safely locked away on my computer. It was everywhere in my life. Satan had me where it counted, but God had used this incredibly real book to shine light on the dark areas of my soul.<br />
<br />
I can say now with confidence, though I am still battling temptation - I have the Lord by my side. He has helped me get this far, and I do know, with the power of the Holy Spirit, I can kick Satan out of his comfort zone in my heart. I am clean from within, and Jesus has purged my of my sins and gives me the strength daily to fight temptations of the flesh, and stay right with Him.<br />
<br />
If you are struggling with sexual temptation in your life, don't be the introvert that finds him/herself in the deep pit I was in. Many other men and women have found themselves in the same pit, but never found their way out. Don't be a statistic. Seek help from wise counsel brothers and sisters, and most of all, seek the Lord your God, Jesus Christ. He knows your troubles and is ringing the doorbell. Open the door to your heart and let Him in…<br />
<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-77182243169176224252010-08-04T23:24:00.000-07:002010-08-12T09:29:48.829-07:00Is there a way to overcome my lust for sex?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFpY-H2konI/AAAAAAAAAYI/U9xrg3vppBc/s1600/umbrella.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="116" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFpY-H2konI/AAAAAAAAAYI/U9xrg3vppBc/s200/umbrella.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>To experience God's grace, we must first recognize our need. (See "How can I tell if I'm getting addicted to sex or pornography?") We must turn to him and others for help. That's not easy. Perhaps you realize that you have a problem but still believe you can handle it alone. Guys hate to admit defeat. We don't want to ask for help.<br />
You Can't Overpower Your Lust<br />
<br />
The apostle Paul understood our predicament. He told the Romans, "I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do-this I keep on doing" (Romans 7:18-19).<br />
<br />
I'm not suggesting that Paul struggled with compulsive sexual behavior, but he did struggle with sin-just like the rest of us. And like the rest of us, he would make up his mind not to commit a certain sin ever again. Did he succeed? No way! Now, if <br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
the apostle Paul couldn't overpower his sin, why should you and I think we can?<br />
<br />
Even in a world free of erotic images, men don't control their lust. My oldest son called me last week from Pakistan. In that country men and women never hang out together. And women are covered with clothing from their head to their feet. Yet my son said he met a guy who offered to introduce him to some prostitutes.<br />
<br />
If men in a country like that can't control their lust, how can we? From the moment we get up in the morning until we climb between the sheets at night, we're bombarded with erotic images and messages.<br />
<br />
Suppose you made up your mind you were going to make it through one day without lusting after a woman. On your way to work your eyes are drawn to the bikini-clad model greeting you from a billboard. A few moments later as you stop at an intersection, you aren't able to keep from noticing the attractively dressed young woman crossing the street.<br />
<br />
At work a friend brags about the gorgeous babe he bedded the night before. As you order lunch, the waitress with the short skirt winks at you and smiles. When you get back to the office, a coworker eagerly shows you his favorite erotic image on the Internet.<br />
<br />
On your way home you stop at the grocery store and catch yourself gazing at the seminude models that adorn the magazines by the checkout counter.<br />
<br />
When you finally get home, you plop down in an easy chair and flip on the TV. As you channel surf, you're exposed to more of the female anatomy than I found in the pages of Playboy when I was a kid.<br />
<br />
With the high level of erotic stimulation you face on a daily basis, do you believe you can bridle your lust alone? I remember a friend once telling me (and he said this with a straight face), "I'll never have a problem with sexual lust."<br />
<br />
I looked at him and said, "You're absolutely amazing. If that's true, you're stronger than Samson, godlier that David, and wiser than Solomon."<br />
<br />
I'll never forget his response. He sat down and stared at me for a half minute without uttering a word. And then he said, "I never though of it like that."<br />
<br />
I'll guarantee you, if Samson, David, and Solomon were here, they'd all say, "You can't defeat your lust alone!"<br />
You Can't Reform Your Lust<br />
<br />
“OK,” you may be thinking, "maybe I can't beat it. But I can make myself better. I can reform my lust."<br />
<br />
I frequently talk with new Christians who think that becoming a follower of Christ means the lust problem is solved. It's as though they think Jesus waved some sort of magic wand over them and-presto!—their sinful nature was transformed. Their lust was gone.<br />
<br />
When they discover that their problem with lust seems even worse than before, they decide they'll study the Bible and pray more. Much to their surprise, that doesn't seem to solve the problem, either.<br />
<br />
Listen to Paul's words. In Romans 7:10-11 he said, "The very command that was supposed to guide me into life was cleverly used to trip me up, throwing me headlong."[1]<br />
<br />
As sinful human beings, our lustful appetites are so evil, they'll use God's good commands to tempt us. Like a rod stirring up dirt that has settled to the bottom of a jar of water, so God's law excites our lust. Forbidden things are more exciting. Women who are off-limits take on a greater appeal. God says don't and our lust says do. God says do and our lust says don't.<br />
Trying to reform our lust is like trying to make a dog into a person. For thirteen years a buff-colored cocker spaniel named Pumpkin graced our family. Over those years I taught Pumpkin all kinds of tricks. She obeyed the common commands like sit, lie down, and roll over. I also trained her to jump through a hoop, close a door, sit on her hind legs, and fall over as though dead when I shot her with an imaginary gun.<br />
<br />
Yet in spite of all my training, I couldn't keep Pumpkin from acting like a dog. She always did doggy things. She ate things people tried not to step in. She sniffed other dogs in places only dogs sniff. She went to the bathroom in public. No matter how well I trained Pumpkin, she was still a dog.<br />
<br />
Similarly, your sinful propensity doesn't reform when you enter a church. It doesn't change when you come to faith in Christ. You can go to church, read your Bible, pray daily, and even lead a ministry without reforming your sinful nature. Paul said, "I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature" (Romans 7:18).<br />
<br />
When we fall under the domination of our sinful nature, we're capable of doing anything evil, whether we're believers or not. When controlled by our lust, we can no more do good than a dog can talk.<br />
<br />
Yet when dealing with their lust, men sometimes think they can reform it. They deny its evil power.<br />
<br />
You may grow as a Christian. You may become more like Christ in your spiritual nature. But in the flesh, in your sinful nature, you're no better than the day you trusted Christ. And because your lust is driven by sin, you can't reform it.<br />
<br />
You Can't Starve Your Lust<br />
<br />
One of the problems I have with a lot of recovery programs is that their primary emphasis is on abstinence. They think the key to defeating an addiction is to stop the behavior. Now, please don't misunderstand me. We can't control any addiction unless we stop acting out. But if that's all we do, it won't work. We'll simply change addictions. For example, our lust will transfer from sex to alcohol. And if we stop drinking, it will move on to shopping or work or gambling.<br />
<br />
It's impossible to starve our lust to death. Until the day we're with the Lord, we'll struggle with sin. A number of years ago I read a poem that describes the struggle and defeat we experience when we fight against our lust alone. W It's entitled “The Yipiyuk” (by Shel Silverstein).<br />
In the swamplands long ago,<br />
Where the weeds and mudglumps grow,<br />
A Yipiyuk bit on my toe…<br />
Exactly why I do not know.<br />
I kicked and cried and hollered "Oh!"<br />
The Yipiyuk would not let go.<br />
I whispered to him soft and low.<br />
The Yipiyuk would not let go.<br />
Yes, that was sixteen years ago,<br />
And the Yipiyuk still won't let go.<br />
The snow may fall, the winds may blow.<br />
The Yipiyuk will not let go.<br />
I drag him 'round each place I go,<br />
And now my child at last you know<br />
exactly why I walk so slow.<br />
<br />
Like the Yipiyuk, your sinful nature will resist letting go. For a while you may ignore it. Later you may insist it doesn't really have a hold on you. But if you hope to break its power, you must first realize it's there and admit you don't have the power to dislodge it.<br />
<br />
Hopefully, you'll tire of fighting a losing battle. Paul did. In desperation he cried out, "Oh, what a terrible predicament I'm in! Who will free me from … this deadly lower nature?" (Romans 7:24 LB).<br />
<br />
If someone as spiritually together as Paul realized he was fighting a losing battle, isn't it time for you to do the same thing? I know giving up isn't easy. But it's a step you must take if you're going to find lasting freedom.<br />
<br />
You may now begin to see your powerlessness to overcome your lust, and sense your need for God's help.<br />
<br />
As a next step, we suggest that you read author Bill Perkin's excellent book When Good Men Are Tempted. Bill details a biblical plan for sexual integrity - one that works, with God's love and assistance.<br />
References<br />
<br />
1. Eugene H. Peterson, The Message (Colorado Springs: Nav Press, 1993, 1994, 1995), 375. [up]<br />
<br />
Supplied by Eden Communications with permission from Zondervan.<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-57885111271507030272010-08-04T23:21:00.000-07:002010-08-12T09:30:12.238-07:00How to Deal with Your Sexual Addiction pornography, cybersex, phone sex, masturbation, etc.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFpYTlqBw3I/AAAAAAAAAYA/zoZmSvCvPrs/s1600/man-kneel-cross.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFpYTlqBw3I/AAAAAAAAAYA/zoZmSvCvPrs/s320/man-kneel-cross.jpg" /></a></div><span class="fullpost"> <br />
Thousands of e-mails come to us from men and women of all walks of life who struggle with addictions to pornography, masturbation, cybersex, and similar sexual practices. We have seen many lives and families devastated by addictive sexual sins. These problems are not unique to any race, financial, social or marital status—Christian or non-Christian. If you suspect that you may have such an addiction, see our article, How can I tell if I'm getting addicted to sex or pornography?, and our Web site, Sex, Love & Relationships which includes stories of many people who have struggled with these issues.<br />
<br />
Often, those who contact us have told no one else about their problem. They suffer in silence. If you are such a person, please contact us. Don't ignore the problem; it will only get worse and the damage will spread.<br />
<br />
If you find yourself engulfed in a sexual addiction, here are some general tips that have helped many in their journey toward restoration and healing:<br />
<br />
1. Face the facts<br />
<br />
"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). There are many ways that we humans sin and fall short—lying, greed, stealing, adultery, taking the Lord's name in vain, and many other selfish acts. All sins are equally serious before our Holy God.<br />
<br />
If there is some sexual sin in your life, the first step toward improvement is to understand and admit what you have done. If you have given yourself to pornography or sexual fantasies involving people other than your spouse, you have been committing adultery. Jesus said:<br />
<br />
"You have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not commit adultery.' "But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:27-28). <br />
<br />
Grasp the seriousness of this. You have been breaking a commandment of God. You have turned something beautiful (sex), into something ugly, selfish and damaging. If you are married, then you have been unfaithful to your spouse. If single, you are sinning against the dear person you may one day marry. If you are returning to this behavior over and over again, despite your desire to stop, then you are out control. You are addicted. If this is the case, and you can admit it, then congratulations; you have taken the first step toward recovery.<br />
<br />
2. Spiritual salvation<br />
2.<br />
<br />
The single biggest factor in combatting such an addiction is to come under the authority of Jesus Christ. You are involved in a spiritual battle. "The Scripture contains no promise of help in overcoming temptation for those who are unsaved." If you are not yet a Christian, we strongly urge you to confess your sin and totally surrender your life to Him. Accept His gift of eternal salvation for your soul. After accepting Christ, some are totally delivered from their addictions. (See our helpful resource page. Also, see: How can I be sure of my salvation?)<br />
<br />
"But, I am saved" - If there is no doubt that you have already committed your life to Jesus Christ and are relying on His sin-covering blood for your salvation, then do not let your sin cause you to doubt your salvation. Instead, deal with your sin. Confess it, and rededicate your life to Christ. Don't hold back any part of your life from Him. Humble yourself totally before God. Surrender it all. Ask Him to help you live a life of purity and true love. Accept your own failure and inadequacy. Admit that you cannot overcome sin on your own.<br />
<br />
The apostle Paul understood the frustration and terrible hold that our inherited sin has on all descendants of Adam and Eve:<br />
<br />
"I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. …I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do--this I keep on doing.<br />
<br />
Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.<br />
<br />
So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God's law; but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death?"<br />
--Romans 7:15-24 (NIV)<br />
<br />
3. Admit your weakness, seek God's help<br />
<br />
All humans are selfish and sinful; it is our nature. Addiction to pornography and other sexual sins are particularly potent in their effect, similar to a seductive and powerful drug. Once it has a hold on you, it is very difficult to resist. In fact, it is virtually impossible to overcome on your own. You must have God's help.<br />
<br />
God cannot work with you if you are still trying to overcome sin on your own; it is a form of pridefulness. You are, in effect, saying to God "I can take care of this myself." Consider these verses:<br />
<br />
"The wicked in his proud countenance does not seek God…" (Psalm 10:4). "Pride goes before destruction…" (Proverbs 16:18). "When pride comes, then comes shame; But with the humble is wisdom" (Proverbs 11:2).<br />
<br />
"You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You" (Isa 26:3, NKJV).<br />
<br />
"Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you" (I Peter 5:6-7).<br />
<br />
You see, God's willingness to “exalt you” (lift you up spiritually) is dependent on your willingness to humble yourself before Him. But the second part is just as important: God cares for you so much that He is willing to take all of your cares (worries, anxieties, needs, fears, desires, challenges, regrets, etc.) upon Himself. In other words, humble yourself by accepting your inability to handle the cares of life and give them all over to God. THEN He will lift you up spiritually, and you will find peace and freedom unlike anything you've ever known.<br />
<br />
The Holy Spirit will be the most powerful in your life, when you are the most humble—when you get your own interests and desires out of the way. Then, He can produce in you the fruit He promised: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control (Galatians 5:22-23).<br />
<br />
Notice that last one—self control. It is important to see that self control is not simply a matter of one's will; it is, in fact, a fruit of the Holy Spirit working in us. What a merciful God we have! As we learn to depend more and more on God to see us through each day, and we become more aware of His presence moment by moment, we find that over time the magnet of sexual sin loses its strength.<br />
<br />
4. Prayer power<br />
#<br />
<br />
Prayer is conversation with our Creator. It is a child's communion with his Father. The Bible emphasizes that it should have a very high priority in our lives. Continual prayer is very important to your recovery. If there was ever a time in your life when you need to pray, it is now. It is the Christian's greatest weapon against the sin nature and the dangers and temptations of this world. "Anything of value in the kingdom of God is initiated in and dependent on prayer." Rely on God, and learn to think as He does. This will bring a revolution of good in your life.<br />
<br />
Here's how to pray, each and every day…<br />
<br />
1.<br />
<br />
Confess all known sin<br />
Read: Psalm 51 | Mark 7:20-23 | 1 John 1:7-10<br />
2.<br />
<br />
Renounce conformity to the world<br />
Read: Romans 12:2, 6:13-14<br />
3.<br />
<br />
Ardently seek an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. He will give you a richer, more meaningful life.<br />
Read: John 10:10, 15:5-12 | Ephesians 3:14-19 | Philippians 3:10-14<br />
4.<br />
<br />
Offer your body as a “living sacrifice” to God<br />
See: Romans 12:1-2 | 1 Corinthians 6:19-20<br />
5.<br />
<br />
Worship God<br />
Read: John 4:23-24 | Philippians 3:3<br />
6.<br />
<br />
Thank and praise God. Thank Him for his grace and mercy, praise Him, and keep seeking His mercy. Thank God for answered prayer.<br />
Read: What should we thank God for, and how should we praise Him? | Thanksgiving, do the right thing | Are you thankful to God? | Philippians 4:6-7 | Colossians 4:2<br />
7.<br />
<br />
Ask God for help in living a pure and loving life<br />
See: Philippians 4:6-7 | Hebrews 4:16<br />
<br />
5. Reading and memorizing Scripture<br />
#<br />
<br />
Memorizing scripture is an often overlooked weapon that should be in every Christian's arsenal. Memorize James 1:14 and 1 Corinthians 10:13 and quote them when you are tempted.<br />
<br />
Open your Bible at Psalm 51 and make it your own prayer.<br />
<br />
The following passages are also helpful in dealing with lust and sexual immorality:<br />
<br />
Matthew 5:27-30 | 1 Peter 2:11 | Romans 8:13 | Romans 6:12 | 1 Corinthians 6:13 | Galatians 5:17 | Philippians 4:8 | 2 Timothy 2:22 | Psalm 101:2,3 | Proverbs 6:25-29 | Proverbs 5:18-20 | Proverbs 8:13 | Job 31:1-4 | Matthew 5:8 | Romans 8:6 | 1 Corinthians 6:9 | 1 Corinthians 6:18-19 | 2 Corinthians 10:5, 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 | James 1:15; 4:3 | 1 John 2:16<br />
<br />
Not only should Scripture memory be a regular part of your life as a Christian, reading the Bible regularly should as well. Read the Bible daily, without fail. We offer two plans that assist you in reading through the entire Bible: One-Year Plan / Three-Year Plan.<br />
<br />
6. Accountability<br />
#<br />
<br />
Although it is healthy to be ashamed of the sins you are involved in, don't let that shame become one of Satan's weapons to keep you trapped. Secrecy is often a Christian's biggest enemy, while confession can bring freedom and release from the bondage of an overwhelming sense of shame. If no one knows of your personal moral failures, there is no one to be accountable to, or to help lift you up in prayer or encourage you. Don't let your pride destroy you (Prov. 29:23; Mark 7:21; 2 Chr, 32:26). In an accountability relationship, you choose a confidant that you can be honest and open with about your addiction. Confess your sin (James 5:16). Be sure to choose someone of the same sex. Preferably, select a discrete person that has some spiritual maturity in their walk with Christ, and who has a helpful, non-condemning spirit.<br />
<br />
Some of you are church leaders or teachers. We fully understand that breaking total secrecy about your sin is going to be especially difficult. But it is still necessary. God requires more of shepherds (not less) and holds them more accountable. Trust God and pray about who He would have assist you. Humble yourself. Proceed with wisdom and faith. Do what needs to be done. As a leader, it is even more important for you to do what is right and to deal decisively with your sin.<br />
<br />
If your addiction involves viewing Internet pornography, there is an Internet service that can assist you. CovenantEyes.net is an on-line accountability service. They point out that "while Internet filters can provide some help, they can also block acceptable web sites, creating frustration. Filters can also be turned off or bypassed, rendering them ineffective. The Covenant Eyes Program removes the secrecy and privacy of using the Internet. Covenant Eyes promotes self-control and personal discipline, and the individual is held accountable in their Internet use."<br />
<br />
It works by logging the address of each Web site visited, then compiling a list of visited sites that can be viewed on-line by your accountability partner. Users often find their temptation dramatically reduced and often leave it altogether once they know someone is monitoring their Web usage.<br />
0.7 Blocking Internet pornography<br />
<br />
If you spend much time on the Internet, computer monitoring (as mentioned above with Covenant Eyes) or Internet filters are highly recommended. There are many filters to choose from, including:<br />
<br />
*<br />
<br />
AFA Filter—single profile, with no password overrides. This means no guessed or cracked passwords, resulting in maximum protection for children and adults. About $40/yr. See: AFAfilter.com<br />
*<br />
<br />
Hedgebuilders—free to pastors, missionaries, and Christian schools. Others pay a small fee. See: Hedge.org<br />
<br />
8. Guard your heart, avoid temptations<br />
Guard your heart with all diligence (Proverbs 4:23). Don't let the demonic realm influence your thought-life (Ephesians 6:12-20). If you give yourself to sinful fantasies and pursuits, you will become their slave (Romans 6:16).<br />
<br />
A simple change of habit can do wonders in keeping you from temptation. For example, if you are most tempted when you spend time on the computer after your spouse has gone to bed, then make a commitment to stay off of the computer during that time. If you know that a certain street you drive down causes you to lust due to certain establishments on it, or prostitutes that hang around, or alluring billboards, you would be wise to travel a different route.<br />
<br />
"Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word" (Psalm 119:37).<br />
<br />
Stephen Arterburn in his book Every Man's Battle talks about retraining the eyes to “bounce away” from visual things that stimulate lust in you. For men, this might mean you need to look away as soon as you see a scantily dressed female jogger. Don't fuel your lust. Avert your eyes from temptations, and don't look back.<br />
<br />
The same applies to visual temptations on magazines at the grocery store checkout line, or billboards, television programming and commercials. A good habit can be formed in around two weeks. Keep bouncing your gaze away, and remarkable improvement can be noticed rather quickly.<br />
Destroy all pornographic materials in your possession—magazines, books, videos, and computer files. Make no provision for your flesh (Romans 13:14). If you can't control yourself, then you must then get rid of every possible access to pornographic material in your life (Internet, cable TV, etc.). Stop feeding the fire.<br />
<br />
If some friendships cause too much temptation, severe those relationships.<br />
<br />
SUMMARY<br />
<br />
Remember that God loves you, no matter what kind of sin and selfishness you have immersed yourself in, no matter what your destruction your sin has produced. Confess your sin, and admit the gravity of it. Understand that it is impossible to overcome sin totally on your own. Depend on God's help, and seek the support of others. Saturate your mind with God's Word. Pray often. Create barriers to reduce your exposure to temptation. Confess your sin to another Christian (preferably of the same sex), and ask them to pray regularly for you and hold you accountable. Continue to read and learn about your addiction. Seek professional help, especially if the problem is severe and your life has been shattered. Get to work on rebuilding your life, now. If you would like a concerned and discreet Christian to advise you by e-mail about your specific problem, contact us.<br />
<br />
Author: Ken James of Eden Communications, with contributions by Paul S. Taylor, Brian Lunde and Ray Comfort. Editor: Paul S. Taylor.<br />
<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-10272612482086397952010-08-04T21:38:00.000-07:002010-08-12T09:30:41.516-07:00How can I tell if I'm getting addicted to sex or pornography?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFo_-VXPd4I/AAAAAAAAAX4/k2yLOMx9gTY/s1600/capsized-sailboat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFo_-VXPd4I/AAAAAAAAAX4/k2yLOMx9gTY/s320/capsized-sailboat.jpg" /></a></div>If there's one lesson boys learn when growing up, it's the value of being tough, the value of winning.<br />
<br />
The heroes of the big screen portray the ideal man as rough and rugged. James Bond never gives up. Neither did the characters played by John Wayne. And Rocky always won the big fight - or if he didn't win, he at least “goes the distance.” Those guys never gave up. And we don't want to give up either.<br />
<br />
That resistance to raising the white flag serves men well during war or in a job situation that requires perseverance. It can help us hang in there when times are tough in a relationship. But when it comes to compulsive behavior, a refusal to give up only prolongs our agony. It leads to greater enslavement and harm.<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
Of course, most of us won't surrender until we know we're beaten or we know defeat is on the way. Maybe you're not convinced you even have a problem, or if you are, you're not sure how serious it is.<br />
<br />
How to Know If You're Hooked<br />
It's important to understand that sexual addictions don't happen overnight. They take time to develop. But when they're full-blown, a man won't be able to resist the repeated urge to enter into a love relationship with a sexual object or experience that gives him pleasure and the illusion of intimacy.<br />
<br />
That last sentence defines an addict:<br />
<br />
1. He's hooked and can't say no.<br />
2. The object of his addiction gives him two things: pleasure and an illusion of intimacy.<br />
<br />
Not everyone who struggles with sexual compulsions is an addict. Some men abuse their sexuality for a period of time and then grow out of it. Many men with a regrettable sexual experience in the past put it behind them and move on.<br />
<br />
But not everyone is so fortunate. Some men block emotional pain with sexual pleasure. Over time they have to try increasingly risky forms of sexual behavior in order to deaden the pain. Eventually their world revolves around sex. Their obsession has taken over their life.<br />
<br />
The Sexual Addiction Test<br />
Patrick Carnes suggests a series of four questions aimed at helping us discover if we have a sexual addiction and if so, how far it's progressed.[1] While asking yourself these questions, it's crucial that you are brutally honest. The first step in dealing with a problem is admitting we have one.<br />
ONE - Is Your Behavior Secret?<br />
<br />
Are you doing things you refuse to tell others about? Do you feel that if those closest to you knew what you were doing, they would reject you or strongly disapprove of your actions? Are you telling lies to cover your behavior? If so, you're isolating yourself from those you love and entering into a potentially addictive relationship with an object or event.<br />
TWO - Is Your Behavior Abusive?<br />
<br />
Does your sexual behavior create pain (emotional or physical) for you or others? Is it degrading or exploitative of others? Do you find yourself performing increasingly abusive acts? Do you derive pleasure from watching others being abused in some way?<br />
THREE - Is Your Behavior Used to Deaden Painful Feelings?<br />
<br />
Are your sexual actions an effort to change your mood rather than express affections? Do you masturbate or search for some other sexual outlet when you're depressed, bored, or angry? If your sexual behavior is used to erase pain, it's part of an addictive process.<br />
FOUR - Is Your Behavior Empty of Genuine Commitment and Caring?<br />
<br />
Are you substituting the illusion of intimacy provided by an object or event for the genuine intimacy found in a healthy relationship?<br />
<br />
If you answered yes to even one of the four questions, your sexual behavior is either compulsive or addictive.<br />
<br />
Addictive Stages<br />
While the four questions help determine if we have a problem, they don't tell us the extent of the problem. In order to determine that, we need to familiarize ourselves with the levels of addictions.[2]<br />
Pre-addiction<br />
<br />
Pre-addiction describes people who begin to find themselves sexually stimulated through impersonal objects, like pornography, or events, like strip clubs.<br />
<br />
If you're at this level, your life is probably under control. You're holding down a job, and your relationship with your wife or girlfriend is intact. However, you realize that while your fascination with pornography, strip shows, or erotic talk lines isn't compulsive, it is dangerous. You may be troubled by the feeling that your slumbering lust could awaken and take over at any moment.<br />
Level 1<br />
<br />
At level 1 a man's lust has begun to exert its control. He's compulsively involved in such things as masturbation, pornography, homosexuality, or demeaning heterosexual relationships.<br />
<br />
When a man reaches level 1, something significant has happened. While before he always struggled to keep his lust under control, now it's running wild. In his book The Addictive Personality, Craig Nakken notes that the single most important aspect of level 1 addictions is the emergence of the addictive personality.[3] A man's lust, like a great dragon, has awakened from its slumber and threatens to take over his life.<br />
<br />
I experienced this the night I looked through my neighbor's window. It reminded me of the first time I got high on marijuana. I entered a new world and wanted to return to that world. There's something about that first high that people want to recreate. Similarly, a man who enters level 1 awakens his lust in a powerful way. And that initial experience is one he wants to recreate. When we enter level 1, the addictive part of our personality has been stirred. And make no mistake about it, the beast has an insatiable appetite that can slowly take over our life.<br />
Level 2<br />
<br />
When a man reaches level 2, he's taken a bigger and more dangerous step. Now his behavior involves victims and violations of the law. His activities include prostitution, exhibitionism, voyeurism, obscene phone calls, and touching a person intimately without consent. Most of the time he's considered more of a nuisance than a criminal, but unfortunately his behavior can inflict deep emotional pain on his victims.<br />
<br />
Men who are exhibitionists or voyeurs will carry out their secret behavior for years. Living double lives, they're in constant fear of being caught.<br />
<br />
All kinds of “good” people reach level 2. Hardly a week passes without a news story about a politician, teacher, or Hollywood star picking up a prostitute or making an unwanted sexual advance.<br />
Level 3<br />
<br />
By the time a man reaches level 3, his behavior involves serious crimes in which severe damage is done to the victim. Rape, incest, and child molestation occur at this level.<br />
<br />
The Moment of Truth<br />
By now you should know if you're hooked. You should also have a feel for how far your sexual compulsion has progressed. While most of us would prefer avoiding the truth for as long as we can, eventually the moment of truth will arrive. Something will happen to force you to admit that your life is out of control.<br />
<br />
* You'll accidentally leave a pornographic image on your computer monitor, and someone at work will report it to your boss.<br />
* One of your kids will find your stash of X-rated videos.<br />
* A policeman will arrive at your place of work because a neighbor has identified you as a Peeping Tom.<br />
* Your wife will leave because you've had another affair.<br />
* The school counselor will call because you've been reported to the child care agency for improperly touching a neighbor child.<br />
<br />
For Samson, the moment of truth arrived near the end of his life. Blinded by lust, he slept in Delilah's lap while a Philistine barber cut his hair. A moment after the last strand fell, his enemies burst into his presence. Isolated from God, he was powerless to resist. Israel's champion became a bald-headed clown who entertained the Philistines.<br />
<br />
Samson had fallen. He would never gaze at another Philistine woman. His enemies had made sure of that when they gouged out his eyes (Judges 16:20-21).<br />
<br />
Many people believe that Samson's story ends on a tragic note. I don't. Although he was blind and imprisoned, his hair began to grow, and so did his relationship with God. The Lord forgave Samson and used him one last time. The hero of Judah pulled down a Philistine temple, destroying himself and his enemies.<br />
<br />
Samson learned firsthand what every man must know. God is the God of a second and third and fourth chance. He never gives up on us.<br />
References<br />
<br />
1. Patrick Carnes, Out of the Shadows, (Minneapolis: CompCare, 1983), 160. [up]<br />
2. Ibid., 27. [up]<br />
3. Craig Nakken, The Addictive Personality (New York: Harper & Row, 1988), 24. [up]<br />
<br />
<br />
Author: Bill Perkins , text excerpted from his book When Good Men Are Tempted. This Web page supplied by Eden Communications with permission from Zondervan and the author.<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-6024258819190242822010-08-04T21:33:00.000-07:002010-08-04T21:33:37.554-07:00HandPhone dalam Saku Celana : Apakah bisa mempengaruhi Sperma pada Pria?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFo_DvOdAzI/AAAAAAAAAXw/QMRRkQwqebU/s1600/HP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFo_DvOdAzI/AAAAAAAAAXw/QMRRkQwqebU/s320/HP.jpg" /></a></div>Berhati-hatilah kaum pria, apalagi yang tak bisa berlama-lama lepas dari telepon genggam miliknya. Penelitian terbaru menyebutkan bahwa peralatan komunikasi yang canggih ini bisa merusak sperma. Jika Anda adalah jenis orang yang suka menyimpan telepon seluler (ponsel) di saku celana atau dimasukkan dalam sarung kecil dan digantung di pinggang, maka jumlah sperma Anda bisa berkurang hingga 30%.<br />
<br />
Radiasi yang dipancarkan ponsel berpengaruh negatif terhadap produksi sperma dan kesuburan laki-laki. Pernyataan tersebut diungkapkan oleh peneliti dari Departemen Obstetri dan Ginekologi, Universitas Szeged, Hungaria, yang juga melaporkan hasil penelitiannya dalam konferensi The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology di Berlin, Jerman. Dalam penelitiannya, para peneliti tersebut menganalisa sperma dari 221 orang pria dan mengamati perilaku mereka dalam <br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
menggunakan ponsel. Para ilmuwan ini menemukan adanya korelasi positif antara penggunaan ponsel, bahkan jika di set dalam posisi standby, dengan berkurangnya kualitas dan kuantitas sperma.<br />
Ap<br />
<br />
<br />
Namun, masih diperlukan penelitian lanjutan untuk memastikan hasil penelitian tersebut. Salah satu keraguannya yaitu para peneliti tampaknya tidak memperhitungkan faktor-faktor lain yang juga bisa mempengaruhi hasil penelitian.<br />
<br />
Perlu diketahui, faktor-faktor lain seperti tingkat stres, pengaruh alkohol, jenis pekerjaan, dan kebiasaan merokok para pria yang menjadi obyek penelitian tersebut mempunyai peran yang cukup besar dalam menentukan kualitas dan jumlah sperma.<br />
<br />
Masalah infertilitas pada pria memang meningkat dalam sepuluh tahun terakhir, jauh sebelum penggunaan ponsel semakin meluas. Banyak faktor yang berperan dalam masalah tersebut.<br />
<br />
Sementara itu, merujuk penelitian lembaga tersebut tentang pengaruh paparan gelombang radio yang dipancarkan ponsel terhadap kesehatan manusia, menunjukkan bahwa hasilnya aman-aman saja. Namun, mengingat saat ini ponsel digunakan secara luas di seluruh dunia, maka riset lanjutan yang lebih mendalam sangat diperlukan.<br />
<br />
Bahaya penggunaan ponsel bagi kesehatan manusia memang beberapa kali dikemukakan. Antara lain teori yang menghubungkan antara penggunaan telepon genggam dengan penyakit kanker, termasuk kanker otak, meningioma, neurinoma akustik, acoustic melanoma, dan kanker kelenjar ludah. Namun, sejauh ini tidak ada bukti yang konsisten ditemukan.<br />
<br />
Di luar semua itu, ponsel memang berbahaya bagi manusia, terutama jika Anda sibuk memencet nomor telepon genggam atau berbicara lewat telepon saat menyetir. Survei yang dibuat Yayasan Asosiasi Otomobil Amerika untuk Keamanan Lalu Lintas menunjukkan bahwa penggunaan telepon genggam telah menyumbang 1.5% dari 26.145 kali kecelakaan yang terjadi di AS.<br />
<br />
<br />
http://www.dechacare.com/Benarkah-Ponsel-Bisa-Merusak-Sperma-I61.html<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-77092787472428205582010-08-04T10:10:00.000-07:002010-08-04T10:10:36.187-07:00Harry Potter : Sebuah Refleksi dari Andar Ismail<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFme5jSU-tI/AAAAAAAAAXo/wsDSYs_lveU/s1600/andarism.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFme5jSU-tI/AAAAAAAAAXo/wsDSYs_lveU/s320/andarism.gif" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Andar Ismail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Tidak! Saya tidak senang sihir! Saya tidak suka sihir! Apalagi percaya sihir! Uhhh, amit-amit! Boro-boro percaya, disuruh baca buku sihir pun, saya emoh banget!<br />
Lho, kalau begitu kenapa ada buku tentang Harry Potter ini? Tenang, jangan buru-buru sewot. Jangan lihat buku ini langsung jadi sewot, "Murtad! Emangnya BPK Gunung Mulia itu penerbit sihir?"<br />
Buku Injil menurut Harry Potter ini sama sekali tidak menggarisbawahi sihir. Sebaliknya, buku ini justru mengkonfrontasi praktik sihir dengan iman kristiani. Buku ini menyoroti praktik okultisme dalam terang Injil Kristus. Buku ini diterbitkan aslinya oleh penerbit milik Presbyterian Church USA, yaitu Westminster John Knox Press, yang sangat selektif dalam menerbitkan naskah. Pengarangnya pun mempunyai reputasi baik, yaitu Connie Neal, seorang pakar literatur Kristen.<br />
Tetapi bukankah Harry Potter penuh sihir? Memang. Bahkan sihir dalam cerita Harry Potter banyak yang serupa dengan praktik dunia sihir sesungguhnya. Sampai-sampai ada tuduhan bahwa cerita Harry Potter secara terselubung bertujuan meracuni anak dengan ilmu sihir.<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
Jenis sastra cerita Harry Potter adalah fantasi dan berpanggung tentang sekawanan remaja yang berpetualang dengan berbekal kemampuan sihir. <br />
Buku cerita fantasi memang merupakan wahana ampuh untuk mendidik anak. Jenisnya beraneka, tentang legenda dan fauna, peri dan kurcaci, epik dan profetik, pahlawan gagah berani melawan penjahat keji. Pokoknya seru! Belum lagi fiksi realistik, yang walaupun realistik namun tetap merupakan fantasi. Cerita fantasi berguna untuk mengembangkan imajinasi anak, sebab setiap orang perlu mengembangkan kemampuan berimajinasi. <br />
Dengan membaca cerita fantasi, anak belajar membedakan antara khayalan dan kenyataan. Bisa jadi, setelah membaca cerita Harry Potter, anak ini meniru dan menyihir kucingnya, "Sim, sim salabim, kucing jadilah kau harimau!" Tetapi kucing itu malah lari ketakutan sambil mengeong. Tahulah anak ini bahwa khayalan bukan kenyataan.<br />
Memang sejak dini anak memerlukan jenis-jenis bacaan fiksi atau non-fiksi yang beraneka ragam supaya ia mempunyai pilihan dalam mencari dan mengarahkan pembentukan jati dirinya. Kemajemukan jenis bacaan diperlukan untuk perkembangan kepribadian. <br />
Semua itu hanya wahana. Yang penting lagi adalah tujuan, yaitu fungsi pedagogis di balik cerita. Apa nilai-nila hidup yang terkandung di dalamnya? <br />
Cerita Harry Potter mengandung nilai-nilai pedagogis. Melalui alur yang padat rintangan dan solusi yang ditangani Harry Potter dan kawan-kawan, para pembaca melihat nilai-nilai seperti prakarsa, rasa ingin tahu, tekun, kreatif, inovatif, bersahabat, kerja sama, setia, jujur, mau berusaha dan berlelah, berani melawan yang jahat, dan banyak lainnya. <br />
Dalam buku Injil menurut Harry Potter ini, Connie Neal mengajak kita melihat bahwa cerita Harry Potter menyiratkan banyak tema Injil Kristus yang dipraktikkan oleh para pelaku, misalnya mengampuni, mengasihi, merangkul yang tersisih, bertekun dalam derita, bermurah hati, menolong yang tidak berdaya, dan lainnya. Secara kasat mata Neal membandingkan berbagai adegan cerita Harry Potter dengan perikop-perikop dari keempat kitab Injil. <br />
Tetapi bukankah perbuatan sihir Harry Potter berurusan dengan kuasa jahat? Memang! Justru karena itu kita diajak oleh Neal untuk menaati suruhan Kristus, yaitu menangkal kuasa jahat. Tulis Neal, "Therefore, although, they are real and dangerous, we need not cover ini fear of evil spirits. Like Harry and friends, we can learn to practice Defense Against the Dark Arts, trusting that there is a greater power at work that we may not yet fully understand," Alkitab tidak menyangkal kuasa-kuasa sihir. Namun kuasa-kuasa itu dinilai tidak langgeng dan akan punah, sekalipun banyak sihirmu dan sangat kuat manteramu" (Yes 47:9). <br />
Kuasa sihir sungguh ada, namun kita tidak percaya, dalam arti tidak mempercayai dan tidak mempercayakan diri kepadanya. <br />
Sama seperti Harry Potter, kita pun hidup di tengah kuasa-kuasa kejahatan. Tetapi sumber pertolongan kita dalam menangkal kuasa-kuasa kejahatan itu berbeda dari Harry Potter, bahkan bertolak belakang. Justru cerita Harry Potter memawaskan kita pada sumber pertolongan kita, yaitu Kristus. Tulis Neal, "The Promised return of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, is bright opposite to the ominous expectation of the Dark Lord's return in Harry's world."<br />
Tetapi apakah iman kristiani kita tidak jadi goyah jika membaca buku Harry Potter? <br />
Ah, masakan! Masakan iman jadi goyah cuma gara-gara membaca dongeng? Tulis Neal, "Is our own faith so fragile that we dare not know what those of different sect of Christianity, or those of undisclosed religious persuasions, or those of different religious background are thinking?"<br />
Cerita Harry Potter diminati dan dimusuhi. Yang suka cerita Harry Potter banyak, namun yang membencinya juga banyak. Bahkan ada gereja yang begitu sewot sehingga membakar buku Harry Potter. <br />
Mendengar sewot-sewot itu, saya jadi berimajinasi. Apakah Tuhan juga ikut sewot? Maka saya pun mengetuk ruang belajar Tuhan. Ruangan itu penuh dengan buku. Sambil memperlihatkan buku Harry Potter, saya bertanya secara sopan, "Tuhan, maaf mengganggu sebentar. Buku Harry Potter ini menimbulkan heboh. Ada gereja yang memaki-maki pengarangnya dan membakar bukunya. Mereka sewot banget." <br />
Kok, Tuhan tidak ikut sewot? Tuhan tersenyum, lalu Tuhan menoleh ke atas meja tulis-Nya. Astaga, ternyata di atas meja Tuhan pun ada buku Harry Potter. <br />
Penulis adalah pengarang buku-buku renungan "Seri Selamat" BPK Gunung Mulia..<br />
<br />
Suara Pembaharuan Daily<br />
<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-18226093970283269862010-08-04T10:03:00.000-07:002010-08-04T10:03:59.747-07:00Pro Kontra Harry Potter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFmc5dYKWfI/AAAAAAAAAXg/pMqwQtKXSVA/s1600/harry+2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFmc5dYKWfI/AAAAAAAAAXg/pMqwQtKXSVA/s320/harry+2.PNG" /></a></div>Bagaikan suatu ritual rutin, setiap munculnya buku Harry Potter terbaru, yang biasanya diterbitkan setiap 16 Juli tepat pada hari Solstice dimana waktu malam lebih lama dari siang di belahan bumi Eropa, selalu ada perdebatan didalam kalangan religius sendiri mengenai buku tersebut. Topik-topik di forum berbasis religius yang membahas Harry Potter selalu mendapatkan reply yang panjang samapi berhalaman-halaman. <br />
<br />
Pihak yang pro-Harry Potter mengatakan bahwa buku tersebut tidak lebih dari sekedar fantasi bagi anak-anak dan mereka (anak-anak) tahu mana yang nyata dan mana yang fantasi. Pihak yang kontra mengatakan bahwa dunia sihir Harry Potter membuat pembaca (anak-anak) menjadi tertarik dan ditakutkan kalau-kalau mereka ini nanti terjerumus kedalam praktek okultisme yang jelas-jelas bertentangan dengan iman Kristen. <br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
Argumen-argumen yang dilontarkan oleh kaum religius yang pro dan kontra Harry Potter pun cukup bervariatif. Sebagai contoh: <br />
<br />
<br />
Pro Harry Potter <br />
- Sihir di Harry Potter dipaparkan lebih ilmiah dan jauh dari rujukan ke kuasa-kuasa kegelapan <br />
<br />
- Sihir di Harry Potter tidak lebih “menjerumuskan†daripada sihir-sihir di Lord of The Rings karangan J.R.R Tolkien, seorang pengarang Katolik, yang sangat dihargai oleh hampir semua kaum religius <br />
<br />
- Unsur fantasi dari sihir di Harry Potter yang kental membuat pembaca dengan mudah tidak merasa bahwa apa yang ada di buku adalah kenyataan. <br />
<br />
- Buku ini menarik minat anak untuk membaca yang semakin langka di jaman ini. <br />
<br />
- Cerita di buku Harry Potter adalah tentang yang baik yang mengalahkan yang jahat. <br />
<br />
- Sedikit nasihat orang tua mampu mengarahkan pikiran anak yang membaca supaya tidak terjerumus <br />
<br />
- etc <br />
<br />
<br />
Kontra Harry Potter <br />
- Sihir dan keajaiban di Harry Potter mendapatkan referensinya dari praktek-praktek okultisme. Seperti cara meramu ramuan-ramuan, binatang-binatang dari mitos-mitos etc. <br />
<br />
- Sihir di Harry Potter sama sekali tidak sama dengan sihir di Lord of The Rings karena sihir di Lord of The Rings jarang digunakan dan tidak dipaparkan secara mendetail seperti di Harry Potter <br />
<br />
- Dijaman informasi dan internet ini, anak yang ingin tahu akan mudah mendapat akses tentang ilmu sihir dan okultisme di Internet yang belakangan ini menjamur. Ini akan dengan mudah menjerumuskan anak yang lugu <br />
<br />
- Harry Potter mengajarkan anak untuk bersifat mencari jalan pintas dengan menggunakan sihir <br />
<br />
- etc <br />
<br />
<br />
Namun baru baru ini ada perkembangan menarik, yaitu adanya berita yang betrerbangan di dunia maya dan juga di media massa tertentu bahwa Bapa Suci Paus Benedictus XVII mengecam buku Harry Potter. Berita ini dipicu oleh dua surat balasan Bapa Suci, saat dia masih menjabat sebagai prefek dari Kongregasi Ajaran Iman (Cogregaton of Doctrine of the Faith) terhadap satu pengarang Jerman yang menerbitkan buku yang mengktritk novel Harry Potter. Berikut isi surat tersebut: <br />
<br />
Quote:<br />
Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger <br />
Vatican City <br />
March 7, 2003 <br />
Esteemed and dear Ms. Kuby! <br />
Many thanks for your kind letter of February 20th and the informative book which you sent me in the same mail. It is good, that you enlighten people about Harry Potter, because those are subtle seductions, which act unnoticed and by this deeply distort Christianity in the soul, before it can grow properly. <br />
I would like to suggest that you write to Mr. Peter Fleedwood, (Pontifical Council of Culture, Piazza S. Calisto 16, I00153 Rome) directly and to send him your book. <br />
Sincere Greetings and Blessings, <br />
+ Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger <br />
======================= <br />
Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger <br />
Vatican City <br />
May 27, 2003 <br />
Esteemed and dear Ms. Kuby, <br />
<br />
Somehow your letter got buried in the large pile of name-day , birthday and Easter mail. Finally this pile is taken care of, so that I can gladly allow you to refer to my judgment about Harry Potter. <br />
Sincere Greetings and Blessings, <br />
+ Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger<br />
<br />
<br />
Terjemahan: <br />
Quote:<br />
Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger <br />
Vatican City <br />
March 7, 2003 <br />
<br />
Esteemed and dear Ms. Kuby! <br />
<br />
Banyak terima kasih terhadap surat baik anda pada 20 Februari dan buku yang informatif yang telah anda kirim kepadaku berikut dengan surat tersebut. Adalah baik bahwa anda memberikan penerangan terhadap orang-orang mengenai Harry Potter, karena hal-hal tersebut adalah bujukan yang halus yang beraksi secara tidak diketahui dan karenya sangat mengganggu Kristianitas dalam jiwa sebelum [Kritianitas dalam jiwa tersebut] bisa tumbuh dengan baik. <br />
<br />
Aku menganjurkan anda untuk menulis kepada Tuan Peter Fleedwood, (Pontifical Council of Culture, Piazza S. Calisto 16, I00153 Rome) secara langsung dan mengirimkannya buku anda. <br />
<br />
Salam dan berkat tulus, <br />
<br />
+ Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger <br />
<br />
======================= <br />
<br />
Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger <br />
Vatican City <br />
May 27, 2003 <br />
<br />
Esteemed and dear Ms. Kuby, <br />
<br />
Atas satu-dua alasan surat anda terpendam dalam tumpukan surat nama-hari, hari lahir dan Paskah. Akhirnya aku telah membereskan tumpukan ini sehingga aku dengan senang hati mengijinkan anda untuk merujuk pada keputusanku atas Harry Potter. <br />
Salam dan berkat tulus, <br />
<br />
+ Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger<br />
<br />
Tampaknya Kuby, yang adalah seorang wanita Jerman pengarang buku anti-Harry Potter, mengirimkan surat kepada Cardinal Ratzinger beserta dengan bukunya dan kemudian dibalas oleh sang Kardinal. Dan setelah itu Kuby mengirimkan surat lagi untuk meminta ijin merujuk pada surat Kardinal Ratzinger pertama kepadanya sebagai semacam dukungan terhadap sikap kontra Harry Potter. <br />
<br />
<br />
Jimmy Akin, Chief Apologist dari Catholic Answer (Catholic.com), di blog-nya, dimana aku mendapat kopi dari surat tersebut, menekankan pada apa yang TIDAK DITULIS oleh Kardinal Ratzinger: <br />
<br />
1. Kardinal Ratzinger TIDAK mengatakan bahwa SIAPAPUN tidak boleh membaca Harry Potter <br />
2. Kardinal Ratzinger TIDAK mengatakan bahwa mereka yang teguh imannya tidak boleh membaca Harry Potter <br />
3. Kardinal Ratzinger TIDAK mengatakan bahwa orang muda umur tertentu tidak boleh membacanya bila orang tua mereka membantu dalam menjelaskan hal-hal yang problematis <br />
<br />
<br />
Jimmy Akin juga bersasumsi bahwa Cardial Ratzinger saat itu tidak membaca langsung buku Harry Potter sendiri, tapi mungkin hanya membaca cepat buku anti Harry Potter karangan Kuby. Asumsi ini cukup beralasan mengingat betapa sibuknya seorang Kardinal Ratzinger. <br />
<br />
<br />
Dan patut diingat juga bahwa apa yang ditulis Cardinal Ratzinger tersebut bukanlah suatu keputusan yang otoritatif ataupun bahkan infallible (saat dia membuat keputusan tersebut dia bukan Paus, plus buku Harry Potter tidak termasuk dalam rubrik kuasa infallibilitas). <br />
<br />
<br />
Pendapat DeusVult pribadi: <br />
Aku cukup menikmati buku Harry Potter sejak seri pertama. Bacaan ini cukup ringan untuk dibaca dan exciting untuk diikuti. Karena aku cukup yakin akan iman yang Katolik dan Apostolik, Aku sama sekali tidak khawatir akan pernah terpengaruh sedikitpun oleh Harry Potter. Terlebih aku merasa bahwa dunia sihir yang dijadikan setting di buku tersebut merupakan dunia sihir dari sudut pandang budaya barat. So it’s a bit hard for a person like me, yang tidak dibesarkan oleh budaya barat, to relate to the book. <br />
<br />
Jika aku mempunyai anak kecil apakah aku akan mengijinkan mereka membaca buku Harry Potter? Mungkin tidak sebelum aku benar-benar yakin kalau anakku sama sekali tidak akan terpengaruh.<br />
<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-70826558387019097722010-08-04T09:53:00.000-07:002010-08-04T09:53:32.515-07:00About Wicca and Paganism<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFma-kJgUdI/AAAAAAAAAXY/i7apKkiFGWY/s1600/wicca-patriarch.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFma-kJgUdI/AAAAAAAAAXY/i7apKkiFGWY/s320/wicca-patriarch.gif" /></a></div>Love of Nature<br />
Pagans of all persuasions revere nature. In fact, many individuals are attracted to Paganism as a direct result of a connection that they feel with the world around them and the beauty of the world they see. This reverence for nature leads many Pagans to the conclusion that the world itself must be divine.<br />
"Our religion is about the sacredness of this life on this Earth, here and now. We are 'Nature worshipers' so Nature is a sacred study for us. To paraphrase, we want to see Her more clearly, love Her more dearly, and follow her more nearly. Any ecological study, any bird watching, or other such activities, help us to understand Mother Gaia." (Chas S. Clifton (ed.), Modern Rites of Passage: Witchcraft Today, Book Two, 1994, p. 99).<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
Many Christians could probably be more involved in the preservation of the planet in which we live. This, in and of itself is indeed a noble cause. Christians also recognize the beauty in the world around them, but stop short of seeing it as divine in some way. The Bible speaks of the wonder of the created realm in which we live, but goes on to reveal that this has been put in place so that people would go further and reach out for the Person who created it:<br />
"…that which is know about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood by what has been made, so that they are without excuse." (Romans 1:19-20)<br />
I cannot help but feel that Pagans and Wiccans look at the world around them, see the work of God, but then stop short of going further and looking for the Creator, and instead look to the creation itself. This is somewhat like commending a sculpture rather than the one who sculptured it. The Bible also comments on this by stating the following:<br />
"…they exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshipped and served the creature rather than the Creator…" (Romans 1:25)<br />
<br />
The Church <br />
Many Pagans and Wiccans feel that they have been treated badly by the Church throughout history. There is certainly much truth in such a view. At times, the established Church has treated witches in terrible ways. However, a lot of Wiccans may not know that it wasn't just the witches who were persecuted. Another group also suffered. Who were they? True Christian believers! At various times throughout Christian history, evil and unregenerate men have infiltrated the established Church and caused it to fall into apostasy. During such times, true believers have separated themselves, but then found themselves being savagely persecuted. Those who persecuted both Pagans and true Christians were not really Christians themselves, but rather corrupt and evil men who took the opportunity of infiltrating the established Church for their own selfish gain. That other Christians were also persecuted, along with many other groups, by the Church is acknowledged by authorities in Wicca:<br />
"All the religious and magical practices on which the Catholic Church did not bestow its blessings - other Christian sects, Paganism, and magic, - were now lumped together. Whatever their aims and virtues, they were declared to be Devil worship …Despite fierce attempts to persecute those Christians whose views did not accord with Catholicism, the heretical sects which later transmuted into the Protestant movement flourished and grew strong." (Vivianne Crowley, Wicca, (Revised and updated ed.), pp. 19-20, emphasis added).<br />
In modern times, the world may look to the trouble in Northern Ireland between “Catholics” and “Protestants” and the killings which occur between the two camps. True Christianity does not seek to harm its neighbor, but rather seeks to obey the commandment of Christ which states: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31). True Christians have had a life changing experience with Jesus Christ and would certainly seek to distance themselves from all violence, hate, and persecution of others. The very fact that someone labels themselves 'Christian' does not always automatically mean that they are a true follower of Jesus Christ, no matter who he or she may be. Indeed, the Bible even warns us that false Christians will come and attempt to bring shame upon the message of the Gospel of Jesus (e.g. 2 Peter 2:1-3; 2 Corinthians 11:13, 26; Galatians 2:4; 1 John 3:15, etc.).<br />
Many Pagans may have had first hand bad experiences with churches, or professing Christians. This is, of course, very unfortunate. However, it may be worth mentioning two points regarding this. Firstly, it should be noted that not everyone who attends a Church is a Christian. There are many, who for various and varied reasons, attend Church on a Sunday, but are not actually Christians. It is easy to focus on such individuals when their life does not conform with Christian principles and then tar everyone with the same brush. Secondly, it must be confessed that even true Christians are by no means perfect. Christians still have a sin nature which, sadly, causes them to fail at times.<br />
Many Pagans and Wiccans tend to look at the sins of the Church and use this as justification to turn away from following Jesus Christ. On account of this many have, sadly, missed Jesus altogether. However, the Bible never tells us to fix our eyes on what the Church is, or is not, doing but rather to `fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith' (Hebrews 12:2).<br />
Pagan Beliefs & Practices<br />
The Devil - A Christian Invention?<br />
Most Wiccans do not believe in a personal entity called Satan or the Devil. Many will say that this being is simply something that the Christian Church has invented in order to control people with fear. However, well before the birth of the Christian Church, the Jews also believed in the existence of Satan. He first appears in the form of a serpent in the book of Genesis. Another Jewish source where Satan is seen as a personal being is in the book of Job. In its opening chapters, there is dialogue occurring between Satan and God, implying, of course, that both are personal beings. Other Pagans may be willing to admit that there is an evil force, or forces, in the world but that this is not to be thought of as a personal being. However, throughout the Bible the following personal attributes are attributed to Satan: He speaks (Job 1:6-2:1-5; Matt 4:1-11); he has a will (1 Chron. 21:1; Luke 22:31; 1 Thess. 2:18; 2 Tim. 2:26); he tempts (Matt. 4:1-11; 1 Cor. 7:5); and he oppressors people (Acts 10:38), all characteristics that we would expect from a personal being, not a symbol of abstract force.<br />
Throughout history, and to this very day, millions of people have testified to encounters with very real spiritual forces of evil. Are we really to conclude that all these people were simply lying, or maybe hallucinating? Indeed many of these people did not come from a Christian worldview and so the concept of a Devil or demons were not at the forefront of their minds prior to these experiences. However, for those who have become Christians, their faith, and what the Bible says about the Devil and the spirits which are under his command, has enabled them to make sense of their experiences (see some of the stories listed at left).<br />
The truth is, the Devil was not simply invented by the Church, but rather exists as a reality in the world today. One of the most effective deceptions he performs is to try and convince people he does not exist! Jesus called Satan "The father of lies" (John 8:44). It should therefore come as no surprise that he will seek to convince people that he does not exist.<br />
Rituals<br />
Paganism and Wicca promote all kinds of various rituals, which have to be adhered to in particular ways to get the desired results. However, religious ceremonies (including ceremonies in some parts of Christianity too!), do not bring people true freedom, but rather enslave people. Prior to my conversion to Christianity, I can recall in my own experience with Wicca that I had to perform certain rituals, in a certain manner, having the right ingredients, etc. and often repeat this over a period of time, for a spell to work. Certainly, many Pagans may not consider this to be enslaving, but speaking as a Christian, and looking back to what I was involved in, I can see that it never brought true liberty. The Bible speaks about serving God from the heart. Any religious acts that we are engaged in should not come as a result of feeling that we have to do them, but rather, we do them spontaneously, out of love for Him (see Ephesians 2:8-10).<br />
<br />
The gods, goddesses, and spirits of Paganism<br />
Most of those who are involved in Paganism hold to a belief in a multitude of gods, goddesses and various spirit beings. Pagan writer, Prudence Jones, observes that a pagan religion<br />
"…is polytheistic, recognizing a plurality of divine beings… " (Prudence Jones, Paganism Today, p. 34).<br />
But can these spirits really be relied upon? Can they be trusted? Again, Prudence Jones observes the following:<br />
"When the world is seen as filled with the gods, however, it can be easy to lose ones inner focus of control. Superstition results: the synchronicities of the world are seen as controlling everything, and the human being seems to have no power faced with the enveloping multitude of otherworldly forces whose influence can be read in every portent." (Prudence Jones, Paganism Today, p. 38). <br />
Jones touches on some very good points here. There have been many people who have practiced various aspects of the occult and have had dealings with spirits, but at some point or another, have felt that they no longer have control over the forces which they call upon, but rather, they themselves are being swept along by forces beyond their control. This was certainly my own experience, and has been the experience of countless others, who's experiences I have also heard. The truth is, that these spirits are highly intelligent and powerful evil spirit beings who are intent on manipulating and deceiving humanity, and leading people away from the true freedom and salvation which is to be found in Jesus Christ.<br />
Patriarchal Issues<br />
Christianity is often viewed as a male religion, amongst those in the Pagan community. Jesus was male and God is spoken of in masculine terms. But it should be noted that God is not a human being, but rather a Spirit (John 4:26). Nor is He male or female, as He transcends human sexuality, being outside the realms of the created order Himself. So why address Him as a He? One of the reasons for this is simply that we need to address God in some way. The Bible rules out the idea that He is an impersonal force of some kind and instead refers to Him in personal terms. By addressing Him as a `He' the ancient Israelites were able to identify with the image of a father and all that went with such an image (Alister E. McGrath, Christian Theology: An Introduction, pp. 205-207).<br />
Curses<br />
Although many Wiccans do steer away from putting curses on others, there are others who will become involved in the cursing of an enemy. I know that this was certainly the case in my own experience in the occult. I had a close friend who called himself “a white witch”, but had no qualms about cursing someone who got in his way, or whom he simply took a dislike to! The truth is, that despite the denials of some of those who practice white witchcraft, the practice of cursing one's enemies is prevalent in the craft. For example, Witchcraft author, Susan Greenwood, explains:<br />
"Witchcraft rituals may be performed for healing…, or, as one wiccan explained to me, they may be enacted for 'the grey area of magic' - 'hexing', 'sending' and 'fetching' energy for a specific purpose, or 'binding'" (Susan Greenwood, Magic, Witchcraft and the Otherworld: An Anthropology, p. 200).<br />
The practice of cursing one's enemies in Wicca, if admitted, is usually qualified with the explanation that it is only ever performed on those who deserve it, such as against a violent offender etc. However, this is a definite grey area, as individual witches have different views on when they have been wronged and exactly who should be hexed. Again, Greenwood explains:<br />
"The Dianic Witch, Z. Budapest in The Holy Book of Women's Mysteries says that if women hex rapists or others who 'commit crimes of patriarchy', there is no divine retribution. She gives instructions on how to perform a 'Righteous Hex', for 'violent criminals only' and when you 'know, not just think' that someone has harmed you' (1990). But I have heard mention of hexing being done between witches for more mundane reasons, over quarrels about money for example, or to gain retribution against an employer who was unsympathetic." (Susan Greenwood, Magic, Witchcraft and the Otherworld: An Anthropology, p. 201).<br />
The Bible answer to revenge, is to not take it yourself, but to allow God, the Judge of all humanity, administer any necessary punishment: "For we know Him who has said, "Vengeance belongs to Me; I will repay," says the Lord. And again, "The Lord will judge His people. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." (Heb. 10:30-31, LITV).<br />
An atmosphere of curses can create both very real spiritual problems and elements of fear and paranoia. Interestingly, Pagan writer Prudence Jones, said the following with regards to this very issue:<br />
"When anything goes wrong in our lives, it is too easy to accuse our nearest enemy of bringing this about by magical means, and if necessary to take magical revenge against them. Such an attitude of blame without proof can trap people in a constant cycle of vendetta and fear of vendetta, leaching energy from ordinary life." (Prudence Jones, Paganism Today, p. 40).<br />
For those who turn to Christ, all curses are broken (no matter how strong!), as Christ became a “curse for us” when He died on the cross for each one of us to take away our sins (see Galatians 3:13; 2 Corinthians 5:21).<br />
Final Comments<br />
• If you are a Wiccan or Pagan, and have read this far, then thank you for being willing to consider a Christian perspective on your religion. I hope that some misconceptions about what you may have perceived Christianity to be have been cleared up. Is it possible that, in the past, you have actually rejected a caricature of Christianity rather than true Christianity? Are you willing to re-examine the life and the claims of Christ? I think that if you sincerely make such a fresh re-examination you will be very surprised. I have spoken with Wiccans and Pagans in the past who have made such an investigation and been amazed at the misconceptions which they have had about Christianity.<br />
<br />
• If you are a Christian, please note that in fairness to my Wiccan and Pagan friends, it must be said that misunderstandings also often occur from those who follow Christ. I hope that some of the misconceptions you may have had about Paganism and Wicca have been addressed. Prayerfully take some of this information and share it in a sensitive manner with your pagan friends.<br />
<br />
Author: Vince McCann of Spotlight Ministries.<br />
<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-1020529555142238912010-08-04T09:46:00.000-07:002010-08-04T09:46:44.861-07:00Film Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I Terbaru 2010<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFmY41SCoyI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/mT4F01DeWCo/s1600/Harry+Potter+and+the+Deathly+Hallows+Part+I+2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFmY41SCoyI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/mT4F01DeWCo/s320/Harry+Potter+and+the+Deathly+Hallows+Part+I+2010.jpg" /></a></div>Film Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I Terbaru 2010. Serial film Harry Potter ke 7, berdasarkan buku ketujuh dan terakhir dalam seri Harry Potter novel karya JK Rowling. Film Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows yang dimulai pada bulan Februari 2009 dan berlangsung selama satu tahun. David Yates, yang memimpin dua film sebelumnya, memimpin kedua bagian.<br />
Film terbaru 2010 ini akan terbelah jadi dua bagian, Bagian 1 akan dirilis pada bulan November 2010, dan Bagian 2 pada bulan Juli 2011. Film akan ditembak kembali ke belakang dan diperlakukan seolah-olah satu film.<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
Sinopsis Film Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I 2010 :<br />
Bab terakhir dari seri film Harry Potter dimulai ketika Harry, Ron dan Hermione meninggalkan Hogwarts di belakang dan berangkat untuk menemukan dan menghancurkan Horcruxes – rahasia kekuatan Voldemort dan keabadian.<br />
Dibintangi:<br />
- Daniel Radcliffe<br />
- Emma Watson<br />
- Rupert Grint<br />
- Helena Bonham Carter<br />
- Brendan Gleeson<br />
Sutradara : David Yates<br />
Produksi : Warner Bros Pictures<br />
Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy Sekuel Keluarga Anak-Anak<br />
Tayang dibioskop: November 2010<br />
Bagi anda penggemar serial film Harry Potter, nantikan episede terbaru dari serial Film Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I terbaru 2010 akhir tahun ini dibioskop Indonesia.<br />
<br />
<br />
Sumber : themovieinsider.com<br />
<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-57954568815963110502010-08-04T09:37:00.000-07:002010-08-04T09:37:06.644-07:00Sinopsis Novel Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFmXF4XanxI/AAAAAAAAAXA/iDwmdBg-W88/s1600/harry-potter-uk-covers.thumbnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFmXF4XanxI/AAAAAAAAAXA/iDwmdBg-W88/s320/harry-potter-uk-covers.thumbnail.jpg" /></a></div>Buku ketujuh diawali dengan Voldemort dan para Pelahap Mautnya di rumah Lucius Malfoy, yang merencanakan untuk membunuh Harry Potter sebelum ia dapat bersembunyi kembali. Meminjam tongkat sihir Lucius, Voldemort membunuh tawanannya, Profesor Charity Burbage, guru Telaah Muggle di Hogwarts, atas alasan telah mengajarkan subyek tersebut dan telah menganjurkan agar paradigma kemurnian darah penyihir diakhiri.<br />
Harry telah siap untuk melakukan perjalanannya dan membaca obituari Albus Dumbledore; dan terungkaplah bahwa ayah Dumbledore, Percival, adalah seorang pembenci non-penyihir dan telah membunuh banyak Muggle, dan meninggal di Penjara Azkaban atas kejahatannya. Harry kemudian meyakinkan keluarga Dursley bahwa mereka harus segera meninggalkan rumah mereka untuk menghindarkan diri dari para Pelahap Maut. Keluarga Dursley kemudian pergi menyembunyikan diri dengan dikawal sepasang penyihir setelah sebelumnya Dudley melontarkan pengakuan bahwa ia peduli akan Harry.<br />
Bersama-sama dengan anggota Orde Phoenix, Harry kemudian pergi dari rumah Dursley ke The Burrow. Dalam perjalanan itu, Hedwig, burung hantu Harry, terbunuh oleh <br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
kutukan pembunuh; George Weasley kehilangan sebelah telinganya; Mad-Eye Moody dibunuh oleh Voldemort sendiri. Belakangan, Harry mendapatkan penglihatan mengenai pelariannya; tongkat sihirnya telah bereaksi dengan tongkat sihir pinjaman Voldemort, menghancurkannya, dan ia juga kemudian mendapatkan penglihatan ketika Voldemort menanyai Ollivander si pembuat tongkat sihir, mengenai mengapa hal itu dapat terjadi.<br />
Beberapa hari kemudian, Menteri Sihir tiba di kediaman Weasley dan memberikan warisan Dumbledore untuk mereka: Delumintaor untuk Ron (alat seperti korek api yang dapat memadamkan cahaya); buku mengenai kisah anak-anak untuk Hermione; dan untuk Harry, pedang Godric Gryffindor dan snitch pertama yang ditangkap Harry. Namun demikian, pedang tersebut ditahan, karena menurut kementerian pedang tersebut bukanlah milik Dumbledore. Ketiganya berusaha mencari tahu apa dibalik ketiga benda yang diberikan kepada mereka itu. Sehari kemudian adalah hari pernikahan Fleur Delacour dan Bill Weasley.<br />
Setelah diberitakan bahwa Voldemort telah berhasil mengambil alih Kementerian Sihir; Harry, Ron, dan Hermione kemudian bersembunyi di Grimmauld Place nomor 12, rumah yang diwariskan Sirius Black kepada Harry. Ketiganya kemudian menyadari bahwa inisial R.A.B. pada liontin yang didapatkan Dumbledore dan Harry dalam buku keenam adalah Regulus Arcturus Black, adik Sirius. Mereka mulai mencari Horcrux yang dicuri Regulus di rumah keluarga Black itu. Dari Kreacher, mereka mengetahui bahwa ia telah membantu Regulus untuk mendampingi Voldemort menempatkan Horcrux berbentuk liontin itu di gua. Ketika Regulus merasa kecewa dengan Dumbledore, ia memerintahkan Kreacher untuk kembali ke gua dan menukar liontin dengan yang palsu. Regulus terbunuh dalam proses itu. Pada akhirnya, mereka bertiga menyadari bahwa Mundungus Fletcher telah mencuri liontin tersebut dan memberikannya kepada Dolores Umbridge.<br />
Setelah selama satu bulan memata-matai Kementerian Sihir, ketiganya berhasil mengambil Horcrux dari Umbridge. Dalam prosesnya, tempat persembunyian mereka diketahui dan terpaksa melarikan diri ke daerah terpencil, berpindah dari satu tempat ke tempat lain, dan tidak dapat lama tinggal di suatu tempat.<br />
Dalam waktu beberapa bulan berpindah-pindah, mereka mendengar bahwa pedang Godric Gryffindor sebenarnya adalah palsu, dan ada yang melakukan sesuatu terhadap pedang aslinya. Dari Phineas Black, Harry mendapatkan bahwa pedang itu terakhir kali digunakan Dumbledore untuk menghancurkan salah satu Horcrux, Cincin Gaunt. Ron kemudian berselisih paham dengan Harry, dan pergi meninggalkan Harry dan Hermione. Harry dan Hermione kemudian pergi ke Godric’s Hollow untuk mencari tahu apakah Dumbledore telah meninggalkan pedang itu di sana.<br />
Di Godric’s Hollow, keduanya mengunjungi tempat pemakaman keluarga di mana keluarga Potter dan Dumbledore dikuburkan. Di Godric’s Holow, mereka juga menemui Bathilda Bagshot, seorang kawan lama Dumbledore yang mengarang buku Sejarah Sihir. Di rumah Bagshot mereka menemukan gambar penyihir hitam Grindelwald, sanak Bagshot, yang pada masa lalu adalah kawan masa kecil Albus Dumbledore. Namun demikian, ternyata mereka terperangkap, karena “Bagshot” itu merupakan penjelmaan ular Voldemort, Nagini. Mereka berhasil melarikan diri dari Voldemort, tetapi tongkat sihir Harry hancur dalam kejadian itu.<br />
Dalam pelarian mereka, Harry akhirnya menemukan bahwa pedang Godric Gryffindor tersembunyi di sebuah kolam beku di tengah sebuah hutan. Ia menyelam ke dalamnya dan mendapati pedang dan kalung liontin Horcrux Voldemort. Kalung itu mencoba mencekik Harry dan hampir menenggelamkannya hingga mati kalau tidak ditolong oleh Ron yang kembali. Keduanya menghancurkan Horcrux dengan pedang itu.<br />
Ketiganya kemudian berbicara kepada Xenophilius Lovegood, ayah Luna Lovegood, dan menanyakan kepada mereka mengenai lambang Grindelwald yang telah berkali-kali muncul selama perjalanan mereka. Di rumah Lovegood, Harry, Ron, dan Hermione mendapatkan kisah penyihir kuno mengenai tiga bersaudara yang mengalahkan kematian, dan masing-masing mendapatkan benda sihir sebagai hasilnya – tongkat sihir yang tak terkalahkan (Elder Wand—tongkat sihir tetua), batu sihir yang dapat menghidupkan kembali yang telah mati (Resurrection Stone—batu kebangkitan), dan Jubah Gaib (jubah tembus pandang) yang tidak lekang oleh waktu. Harry menyadari bahwa jubah yang dimilikinya adalah adalah Jubah Gaib, dan segera menemukan bahwa Lovegood telah berkhianat dan menyerahkan mereka ke Kementerian. Luna, putrinya, telah ditawan dan Xenophilius berpikir untuk menyerahkan Harry Potter sebagai ganti tawanan. Ketiganya meloloskan diri dan berpikir untuk mengumpulkan ketiga benda sihir Deathly Hallows, untuk mengalahkan Voldemort.<br />
Harry, Ron, dan Hermione kemudian tertangkap dan dibawa ke rumah Malfoy. Di sana, Hermione disiksa dan diinterogasi oleh Bellatrix Lestrange untuk mengetahui bagaimana mereka memperoleh pedang Godric Gryffindor, karena ia berpikir bahwa mereka telah mencurinya dari lemari besinya di Gringotts. Di bawah tanah, Harry dan Ron dipenjarakan bersama-sama dengan Dean Thomas, goblin Griphook, pembuat tongkat sihir Ollivander, dan Luna Lovegood. Harry berusaha mencari pertolongan dan Dobby muncul untuk menyelamatkannya. Dalam usaha meloloskan diri, mereka dihadang Wormtail yang kemudian terbunuh karena tercekik oleh tangan perak Wormtail yang dibuat Voldemort tanpa berhasil ditolong oleh Ron dan Harry. Mereka berdua kemudian menolong Hermione dengan bantuan Dobby, yang tewas dibunuh oleh Bellatrix.<br />
Harry dan kedua sahabatnya kemudian berusaha mencari rencana baru. Ia menanyai Ollivander mengenai Elder Wand dan mendapati bahwa pemilik terakhirnya adalah Dumbledore. Ia berusaha untuk mencegah Voldemort mengambilnya dari makam Dumbledore. Dibantu Griphook, Hermione menyamar sebagai Bellatrix Lestrange dan bersama-sama Harry dan Ron memasuki lemari besi Bellatrix di Bank Gingrott’s. Di sana mereka menemukan satu lagi Horcrux, piala Hufflepuff. Griphook kemudian mengkhianati mereka dan melarikan diri dan mencuri pedang Godric Gryffindor. Harry, Ron, dan Hermione berhasil melarikan diri, tetapi Voldemort menyadari bahwa mereka mencari Horcrux-Horcruxnya.<br />
Harry mendapatkan penglihatan segera setelah pelarian mereka; ia dapat melihat melalui mata Voldemort dan mengetahui pikirannya. Voldemort telah mendatangi tempat-tempat Horcurxnya disembunyikan dan mengetahui bahwa mereka telah lenyap dan hancur. Secara ceroboh, Voldemort mengungkapkan bahwa Horcrux terakhir berada di Hogwarts. Ketiganya segera pergi ke Hogsmeade untuk mencari jalan masuk ke sekolah Hogwarts. Di Hogsmeade, mereka disudutkan oleh para Pelahap Maut dan diselamatkan oleh Aberforth Dumbledore. Aberforth membuka jalan terowongan ke Hogwarts di mana mereka disambut oleh Neville Longbottom. Setelah menyelamatkan jiwa Draco Malfoy, Harry menemukan Mahkota Ravenclaw tersembunyi di Kamar Kebutuhan dan benda itu dihancurkan.<br />
Di Shrieking Shack, mereka mendapati Voldemort membunuh Severus Snape dengan tujuan untuk mentransfer kekuatan Elder Wand kepada dirinya sendiri. Dalam sekaratnya, Snape memberikan memorinya kepada Harry. Dari memori itu terungkap bahwa Snape berada di sisi Dumbledore, didorong dengan cinta seumur hidupnya kepada Lily Potter. Snape telah diminta Dumbledore untuk membunuh dirinya jika situasinya mengharuskan demikian; karena bagaimanapun juga hidupnya tidak akan lama lagi akibat kutukan yang terdapat di Horcrux Cincin Gaunt. Selanjutnya, terungkap pula bahwa Harry adalah Horcrux terakhir Voldemort, dan ia harus mati juga sebelum Voldemort dapat dibunuh. Pasrah akan nasibnya, Harry mengorbankan diri dan Voldemort melancarkan kutukan untuk membunuhnya. Tapi alih-alih membunuh Harry, kutukan itu malah menghancurkan bagian dari jiwa Voldemort yang terdapat di tubuhnya. Pada akhirnya, setelah Nagini dibunuh oleh Neville, Voldemort kemudian terbunuh setelah mencoba menggunakan Kutukan pembunuh Avada Kadavra terhadap Harry. Kutukan itu berbalik menyerang Voldemort sendiri oleh Elder Wand.<br />
Dalam kisah di akhir buku, pada tahun 2017, 19 tahun setelah Pertempuran di Hogwarts, Harry dan Ginny Weasley telah memiliki tiga anak bernama James, Albus Severus, dan Lily. Neville Longbottom telah menjadi guru Herbologi di Hogwarts. Ron dan Hermione telah memiliki dua anak bernama Rose dan Hugo. Draco Malfoy memiliki anak bernama Scorpius. Mereka seluruhnya bertemu di stasius kereta api King’s Cross, untuk mengantar anak-anak mereka bersekolah ke Hogwarts. Di sana diungkapkan bahwa bekas luka Harry tidak pernah sakit lagi setelah kekalahan Pangeran Kegelapan.<br />
<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-65085228181301190302010-08-03T10:03:00.000-07:002010-08-03T10:03:55.193-07:00Does life begin only when the brain starts functioning?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFhL6quLa8I/AAAAAAAAAWY/Ktj2P93yfHk/s1600/brain-human.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFhL6quLa8I/AAAAAAAAAWY/Ktj2P93yfHk/s320/brain-human.jpg" /></a></div>Some bioethicists, such as Baruch Brody, believe that full humanness begins when the brain starts functioning, which can first be detected by the electroencephalogram (EEG) at about 40 to 43 days after conception.[1]<br />
Although Brody has moral problems with abortion on demand prior to brain functioning, this is not because he believes the unborn is fully human. Brody maintains that in order to decide when something is fully human, "we must first see... what properties are such that their loss would mean the going out of existence (the death) of a human being." [2]<br />
<br />
He concludes that since at brain death a human being goes out of existence (at least in this mortal realm), the presence of a functioning human brain is the property which makes one fully human. Hence, it would only follow that the start of brain functioning is the beginning of full humanness.<br />
<br />
The fundamental difficulty with this argument is that...<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
Brain death indicates the end of human life as we know it, the dead brain having no capacity to revive itself. But the developing embryo has the natural capacity to bring on the functioning of the brain.[3] <br />
<br />
That is to say, an entity's irreversible absence of brain waves after the brain waves have come into existence indicates that the entity no longer has the natural, inherent capacity to function as a human being, since our current technology is incapable of “reactivating” the brain. However, the unborn entity who has yet to reach the stage in (his or) her development at which brain waves can be detected, unlike the brain dead individual, possesses the inherent capacity to have brain waves. She is like a patient with a temporarily flat EEG.<br />
<br />
The two stages of human life are, then, entirely different from the point of view of brain functioning. The embryo contains the natural capacity to develop all the human activities: perceiving, reasoning, willing and relating to others. Death means the end of natural growth, the cessation of these abilities.[4]<br />
<br />
Brody responds to this criticism by presenting the following science-fiction case:<br />
<br />
<br />
Imagine that medical technology has reached the stage at which, when brain death occurs, the brain is removed, “liquified,” and “recast” into a new functioning brain. The new brain bears no relation to the old one (it has none of its memory traces, and so on). If the new brain were put into the old body, would the same human being exist or a new human being who made use of the body of the old one? I am inclined to suppose the latter.<br />
<br />
But consider the entity whose brain has died. Is he not like the fetus? Both have the potential for developing into an entity with a functioning brain (we shall call this a weak potential) but we can conclude, it seems to me, that an entity can go out of existence even if it retains a weak potential for having a functioning brain, and that, analogously, the fetus is not a human being just because it has this weak potential.<br />
<br />
What is essential for being human is the possession of the potential for human activities that comes with having the structures required for a functioning brain. It is this potential that the fetus acquires at (or perhaps slightly before) the time that its brain starts functioning, and it is this potential that the newly conceived fetus does not have. [5]<br />
<br />
I do not believe that this response succeeds.<br />
<br />
First, unlike the potential of the corpse's dead brain to be liquified and recast as a new brain, the unborn's potency to develop is within itself (intrinsic). "As in the case of other organisms," philosopher A. Chadwick Ray points out, the unborn's development "admittedly requires nourishment from outside and an appropriate environment (consider parasites), but still, the fetus has within itself the power to appropriate nourishment and grow."<br />
<br />
On the other hand, the potential of Brody's corpse is utterly extrinsic. That is, "it can be acted upon from the outside and brought to life, but without immediate surgery its life will not be restored, and it will simply rot." [6]<br />
<br />
Second, the unborn has "interests of itself, in a straightforward, non-projective way, that go beyond the interests of its component parts—cells, tissues, etc.," just as I as a living organism have interests that go beyond the interests of my component parts—ears, nose, teeth, etc. On the other hand, the corpse "has no interests beyond those of its parts. The component cells may have an interest in continuing to live, but the corpse itself has none."<br />
<br />
For example, "there would be no loss in the corpse's organs, all being donated to different patients (imagine donating every living cell if you prefer), whereas in a living fetus's being chopped up for spare parts its own interests would be sacrificed." [7]<br />
<br />
In summary, "the growth of the fetus is in its own interest and is the realization of its intrinsic potential, in which realization its identity is preserved." However, "the implanting of a new brain into a brainless corpse would constitute the genesis of a new organism with its own new telos and interests where there were none." [8]<br />
<br />
Therefore, since the prebrain-functioning unborn entity has a natural inherent capacity for brain functioning while the corpse does not, they do not have the same kind of weak potential that Brody claims they have.<br />
REFERENCES<br />
<br />
1. Baruch Brody, Abortion and the Sanctity of Human Life: A Philosophical View (Cambridge, MA: M.I.T. Press, 1975). [up]<br />
2. Ibid., p. 102. [up]<br />
3. Andrew Varga, The Main Issues in Bioethics, Second edition (New York: Paulist Press, 1984), pp. 61-62. [3]<br />
4. Ibid., 62. [up]<br />
5. Baruch Brody, Abortion and the Sanctity of Human Life: A Philosophical View (Cambridge, MA: M.I.T. Press, 1975), pp. 113-114. [up]<br />
6. A. Chadwick Ray, "Humanity, Personhood, and Abortion," International Philosophical Quarterly 25 (1985), p. 238. [up]<br />
7. Ibid. [up]<br />
8. Ibid. [up]<br />
<br />
<br />
Author: Francis J. Beckwith, adapted from a series in Christian Research Journal, Spring 1991. Provided with permission by Summit Ministries and the author. <br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-49917052889147475602010-08-03T10:01:00.000-07:002010-08-03T10:01:00.365-07:00What are the consequences of false beliefs about the origin of races?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFhK8HPJNAI/AAAAAAAAAWI/22SmI6VNe_g/s1600/dolls-black-and-white.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFhK8HPJNAI/AAAAAAAAAWI/22SmI6VNe_g/s320/dolls-black-and-white.jpg" /></a></div>False beliefs about the origin of races have led to widespread problems worldwide. The effects are far-reaching and include some of the following results:<br />
<br />
* Racism<br />
<br />
One of the biggest justifications for racial discrimination in modern times is the belief that people groups have evolved separately. Thus, different groups are at allegedly different stages of evolution, and so some people groups are more backward than others.<br />
#<br />
<br />
Therefore, the other person may not be as fully human as you. This sort of thinking inspired Hitler in his quest to eliminate Jews and Gypsies and to establish the “master race.” 2<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
Sadly, some Christians have been infected with racist thinking through evolutionary indoctrination that people of a different “color” are inferior because they are supposedly closer to the animals. Such attitudes are completely unbiblical (e.g., Acts 17:26, Colossians 3:11), although out-of-context Bible verses are often conscripted in attempts to justify racist views.<br />
<br />
# Rejection of the Gospel<br />
<br />
The accuracy of the historical details of Genesis is crucial to the trustworthiness of the Bible and to the whole gospel message. 1 So the popular belief that people groups evolved their different features and could not all have come from Noah's family (contrary to the Bible) has eroded belief in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.<br />
<br />
# Bad influence on missionary outreach<br />
<br />
Historically, the spread of evolutionary belief was associated with a slackening of fervor to reach the lost in faraway countries. The idea of savage, half-evolved inferior peoples somehow does not evoke the same missionary urgency as the notion that our “cousins,” closely linked to us in time and heredity, have yet to hear the gospel.3 Even many of the finest of today's missionary organizations have been influenced, often unconsciously, by this deeply ingrained evolutionary belief of how other people and their religions came about.<br />
</span><br />
<span class="fullpost"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFhLLVldAtI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/CTeKPCuhPnQ/s1600/race-oneblood.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFhLLVldAtI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/CTeKPCuhPnQ/s200/race-oneblood.gif" width="155" /></a></div><span class="fullpost"><br />
All Tribes and Nations Are Descendants of Noah's Family!<br />
The Bible makes it clear that any newly “discovered” tribe ultimately goes back to Noah. They are not a group of people who have never had superior technology or knowledge of God in their culture. Rather, their culture (going back to Noah) began with (a) a knowledge of God, and (b) technology at least sufficient to build a boat of ocean-liner size. Romans chapter 1 suggests the major reason for this technological loss and cultural degeneration. It is linked to the deliberate rejection by their ancestors of the worship of the living God.<br />
<br />
Therefore, the first priority in helping a “backward” people group should not be secular education and technical aid, but first and foremost the gospel.<br />
In fact, most “primitive” tribes still have a memory, in their folklore and religion, of the fact that their ancestors turned away from the living God, the Creator. Don Richardson, missionary of Peace Child fame, has shown that a missionary approach, unblinded by evolutionary bias, and thus looking for this link and utilizing it, has borne a bountiful and blessed harvest on many occasions. 4<br />
<br />
Jesus Christ, God's reconciliation in the face of man's rejection of the Creator, is the only truth that can set men and women of every culture, technology, people group, or color truly free (John 8:32; 14:6).<br />
<br />
Footnotes<br />
<br />
1. Ken Ham, The Lie: Evolution (Green Forest, AR: Master Books, 1987).<br />
<br />
2. J. Bergman, “Darwinism and the Nazi Race Holocaust,” CEN Technical Journal, 1999, 13(2):101-111.<br />
<br />
3. For example, R. Grigg, “Darwin's Quisling,” Creation, 1999, 22(1):50-51.<br />
<br />
4. D. Richardson, Eternity in Their Hearts, (Ventura, CA: Regal Books, Division of Gospel Light, 1986).<br />
<br />
[ If this information has been helpful, please prayerfully consider a donation to help pay the expenses for making this faith-building service available to you and your family! Donations are tax-deductible. ]<br />
<br />
Edited by Don Batten, Ph.D. / Authors: Ken Ham, Jonathan Sarfati, and Carl Wieland, adapted from The Revised & Expanded Answers Book (Master Books, 2000).<br />
<br />
Supplied by Creation Ministries International <br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-84979808438967202202010-08-03T09:36:00.000-07:002010-08-03T09:39:23.665-07:00JEJARING SOSIAL FACEBOOK<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFhFa4U5QuI/AAAAAAAAAWA/6_NCHYYfUpw/s1600/fb+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFhFa4U5QuI/AAAAAAAAAWA/6_NCHYYfUpw/s320/fb+1.jpg" /></a></div>Pendahuluan<br />
<br />
Manusia diciptakan oleh Tuhan sebagai makhluk sosial. Ia membutuhkan orang lain dan ia pun dibutuhkan oleh orang lain. Kontak-kontak sosial di masa lalu banyak dilakukan melalui kontak langusng di dunia nyata (real direct social contact). Namun sekarang, dengan semakin majunya teknologi internet, maka kontak social dilakukan secara maya (virtual social contact). Bermunculanlah komunitas atau jejaring sosial di Internet yang begitu cepat menyebar dan dampaknya begitu luar biasa, seperti Facebook, Twitter, Friendster, Flixster, MySpace, dsb. Terjadilah pro dan kontra tentang masalah ini. Ada beberapa gereja yang mungkin berpendapat bahwa kemajuan teknologi itu tidak baik dan pengaruh negatifnya lebih banyak sehingga melarang jemaatnya untuk menggunakannya.<br />
<br />
Sudut pandang kali ini membahas jejaring sosial Facebook (http://www.facebook.com). Sejauh mana manfaat menggunakan Facebook dan seberapa besar bahayanya serta tips-tips penting dalam menggunakannya dapat disimak dalam di sini.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
Manfaat Facebook<br />
Pertama, bagi para remaja, Internet (termasuk Facebook) dapat dimanfaatkan untuk mencari informasi yang menunjang pelajaran, perkuliahan dan hal-hal yang mencerdaskan lainnya. Sedangkan bagi orang dewasa, Facebook dapat dimanfaatkan untuk menunjang pekerjaan dalam mencari data-data yang dibutuhkan, maupun memperkenalkan produknya secara gratis.<br />
<br />
Kedua, untuk mempererat persahabatan karena melalui jejaring ini kita bisa berkomunikasi dan berdiskusi akan banyak hal dengan teman-teman kita yang berada di tempat yang jauh bahkan kita pun bisa berjumpa dengan teman-teman lama melalui jejaring ini.<br />
<br />
Seorang rekan remaja, Alvin Tirtawidjaja mengatakan, “Menurut saya itu semua tetap akan berpengaruh positif dan baik asal digunakan semestinya, karena di setiap perkembangan teknologi pasti ada suatu efek positif yang ingin dicapai oleh pembuatnya, yang akan berguna bagi orang-orang yang menggunakannya,disamping keperluan finansial tentunya.” Manfaat bagi tiap golongan atau kelompok usia sebenarnya tidak terlalu berbeda, seperti motto yang selama ini dimiliki oleh Facebook yaitu “Facebook membantu Anda terhubung dan berbagi dengan orang-orang dalam kehidupan Anda” maka manfaat utamanya juga tidak bergeser jauh dari tujuan tersebut. Bahkan, lanjutnya, banyak di kalangan anak muda atau orang tua yang menggunakan Facebook sebagai ajang berkenalan untuk mencari teman,bahkan pacar dan ga’ sedikit juga lho yang sampai melangkah ke hubungan yang lebih lanjut yang diawali dari perkenalan di Facebook. </span><br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
Pokoknya kalau mau dicari lebih dalam lagi pasti akan banyak ditemukan manfaat Facebook yang lainnya termasuk jika gereja dapat melihat kesempatan ini untuk sarana penginjilan.<br />
<br />
Dapatkah Facebook dan Internet digunakan dalam pelayanan? Untuk itu Leny berpendapat bahwa banyak manfaat yang bisa diperoleh guna meningkatkan pelayanan. Antara lain sebagai berikut. <br />
<br />
Pertama, para pemimpin pujian, bisa mengakses lagu-lagu rohani.<br />
<br />
Kedua, hamba-hamba Tuhan yang membutuhkan berbagai informasi untuk bahan khotbah dan pengajaran Alkitab bisa mengaksesnya dari Internet. Sebaliknya juga bisa meng-upload pelbagai tulisan yang bisa menguatkan iman, misalnya http://stefycreative.blogspot.com dan http://www.petrusfs.co.cc/. Mengenal sebuah gereja juga bisa melalui situs yang ada di Internet, misalnya: http://www.giapringgading.org/.<br />
<br />
Ketiga, Internet juga sarana penginjilan yang efektif, dengan menuliskan ayat-ayat Firman Tuhan atau artikel-artikel yang sarat dengan muatan rohani, maka semua orang bisa membacanya. Melalui live streaming, di mana kebaktian-kebaktian bisa langsung diakses lewat Internet juga bisa memberkati orang-orang yang sedang berselancar di dunia maya. </span><br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
Keempat, Internet bisa menjadi sarana konseling yang efektif, misal ada orang yang bermasalah yang mau curhat, bisa melalui chatting.<br />
<br />
Kelima, jarak yang jauh kadang-kadang membuat sulitnya komunikasi, khususnya dalam hal surat-menyurat. Seperti contohnya, saat ini gereja kita sedang membuka 10 cabang di berbagai propinsi di Indonesia, bila surat-menyurat dilakukan secara manual maka akan memakan waktu yang lama dan biaya yang tidak sedikit. Untuk mengatasi hal tersebut maka Internet sangatlah dibutuhkan, yakni dengan menggunakan email. <br />
<br />
Senada dengan itu, salah seorang mantan Sekretaris Majelis, yaitu Bapak Timotius The Kwie Hong mengatakan bahwa menggunakan Facebook dan Internet wajar saja. “’kan manusia mahluk sosial jadi membutuhkan sarana untuk berkomunitas, dalam hal ini dengan memakai sarana kemajuan tehnologi, jadi positif thinking aja,” begitu ujar beliau. Selanjutnya beliau menyatakan bahwa dengan ber-Facebook ia dapat saling berbagi perasaan, pendapat, pandangan, saran/nasehat, informasi, dan sebagainya. Jadi dapat berfungsi sebagai sarana berkomunikasi. Beliau menyakan sangat terberkati apabila membaca tulisan yang bermanfaat di Facebook, yang kata-katanya sopan, kata-kata bijak yang memberi kekuatan dan penghiburan. Beliau mengatakan bahwa yag menulis sudah melakukan pelayanan dan menjadi berkat.<br />
<br />
<br />
Bahaya Facebook<br />
<br />
Mengenai bahaya Facebook, Leny menyatakan hal-hal berikut.<br />
<br />
Pertama, orang yang mengadakan kontak dengan kita bisa hanya bermanis di kata-kata, tetapi kepribadian dan tingkah lakunya serba misterius. Kejadian akhir-akhir ini, beberapa remaja putri dikabarkan hilang dan diculik setelah bertemu dengan teman barunya melalui Facebook. <br />
<br />
Kedua, adanya link di Facebook dengan situs-situs pornografi yang terkadang bisa muncul tiba-tiba, bahkan juga di situs-situs Kristen pun bisa muncul tiba-tiba.<br />
<br />
Ketiga, terjadi penipuan dalam berbisnis di dunia maya. Leny mengingatkan kita dengan mengutip Amsal 15:3, “Mata Tuhan ada di segala tempat mengawasi orang jahat dan orang baik”. Jadi walaupun kita bisa mengakses Internet di tempat tersembunyi sekalipun dan tidak ada orang yang melihat, ingatlah bahwa Tuhan tahu apa yang kita lakukan dan pikirkan.<br />
<br />
Alvin menambahkan demikian, “Berbicara soal bahaya, setiap perkembangan teknologi pasti akan dapat menimbulkan dampak negatif jika tidak digunakan secara “benar”. Bahaya Facebook misalnya adalah adanya komunitas “pemuja sex” yang secara fulgar membuat account dan group di Facebook yang sengaja untuk mengumpulkan orang-orang yang mempunyai kegemaran yang sama, banyaknya gambar bahkan video porno yang ditampilkan di dinding Facebook yang notabene dapat dengan mudahnya dilihat dan merusak pikiran banyak orang yang “menemukannya”, termasuk anak-anak muda dan mungkin anak kecil yang saat ini juga sudah menggunakan Facebook sebagai “mainan kegemaran” setiap harinya tanpa protection atau perlindungan khusus.“ Ia juga berkata bahwa banyak pekerja yang produktivitasnya dan pelajar yang prestasinya menurun diakibatkan kecanduan Facebook, banyak yang mencuri-curi kesempatan untuk ber-Facebook ria saat pelajaran atau jam kerja, bahkan ekstrimnya ada yang sampai membuat skenario untuk dapat tidak masuk kerja untuk dapat menikmati Facebook sepanjang hari di rumah. Ada juga katanya, orang-orang yang terlalu asyik dengan teman-temannya di dunia maya sampai tidak menghiraukan lagi orang-orang di sekitarnya yang mengakibatkan adanya pernyataan “mendekatkan orang2 yang jauh dan menjauhkan orang2 yang dekat”. Itu adalah beberapa efek negatif yang dapat ditimbulkan oleh penggunaan Facebook yang tidak sehat.<br />
<br />
Tips-tips Penting<br />
<br />
Leny memberikan tips-tips dalam menggunakan Internet agar memberi dampak positif baik bagi diri sendiri atau orang lain.<br />
<br />
Pertama, sekalipun di dunia maya, kita harus tetap sadar bahwa kita adalah orang percaya yang harus menjaga etika dalam menuliskan kata-kata. Karena banyak dijumpai, anak- anak Tuhan menulis kata-kata yang tidak menjadi berkat untuk yang membacanya-seperti kata-kata makian, ejekan, keluhan-keluhan, bahkan kata-kata yang tidak senonoh dengan bangganya ditulis menjadi status. Hal ini bisa melemahkan iman sesamanya, bahkan pada akhirnya bisa menjadi ajang perkelahian.<br />
<br />
Kedua, apabila sudah menikah dan bertemu dengan mantan pacar lewat dunia maya, jangan bangkitkan kenangan masa lalu yang bisa menimbulkan perselingkuhan. <br />
<br />
Ketiga, bijaksanalah mengatur waktu dalam menggunakan jejaring sosial. Jangan menggunakan jam kantor untuk Facebook-an, terlebih lagi kalau hanya untuk hal-hal yang tidak perlu. Jangan menghabiskan waktu dengan on-line dari pagi sampai malam, bahkan ada yang tidak tidur hanya gara-gara bermain facebook. Hal ini merugikan diri sendiri yaitu kesehatan terganggu dan orang lain pun akan kena dampaknya, contohnya kalau sakit tidak masuk kerja.<br />
<br />
Keempat, bahasa tulis berbeda dengan bahasa lisan, sehingga gunakanlah tata bahasa yang baik dan tidak menimbulkan salah pengertian pihak lain. <br />
<br />
Kelima, peringatan khususnya untuk anak-anak remaja: jangan mudah meng-confirm orang yang tidak dikenal, hati-hati dengan biodata yang terkadang bisa menipu. Misalnya,<br />
<br />
mengaku bujangan (single), padahal sudah menikah (married). Mengaku wanita padahal bisa<br />
<br />
jadi itu orang laki-laki, yang iseng dan mengajak untuk berkenalan sampai akhirnya bertemu dan kemudian terjadi hal-hal yang tidak diinginkan, seperti pemerkosaan, perampokan bahkan pembunuhan,dsb. Bapak Timotius juga menyatakan demikian. Ia mengusulkan agar kalau memasukkan ke daftar teman/add, harus orang yang kita kenal.<br />
<br />
Keenam, perhatikan soal hak cipta saat menyalin (copy-paste) maupun menyebarkan tulisan, gambar atau video dari pihak / situs lain agar tidak ada tuntutan dikemudian hari.<br />
<br />
Ketujuh, gunakan internet seperlunya agar biaya tidak membengkak.<br />
<br />
Sedangkan guna meminimalkan bahaya Facebook dan Internet di atas, Leny mengutip Heru Sutadi, anggota Badan Regulasi Telekomunikasi Indonesia tentang beberapa cara sebagai berikut.<br />
<br />
Pertama, jangan mengumbar atau memberikan data diri Anda dengan mudah di Facebook, sebab data diri Anda bisa saja disalahgunakan pihak lain. Internet bersifat anonimous, mengaku perempuan tapi lelaki, bernama X tapi ternyata Y, tinggal di kota A tapi sesungguhnya di B, jangan mudah percaya begitu saja akan informasi yang disampaikan. Gunakan secara bijak media Internet ini, atur waktu mengakses agar tetap produktif dan jangan sembarangan menerima ajakan “kopi darat” yaitu istilah untuk bertemu dengan orang yang belum dikenal.<br />
<br />
Kedua, bagi orang tua, dampingi putra-putri Anda saat mengakses Internet dan berikan penjelasan serta batasan apa saja yang boleh diakses. Untuk menanggulangi situs-situs pornografi dan pornoaksi gunakan program-program filter, seperti netnanny (http://www.netnanny.com), K9 web protection (http://www.k9webprotection.com) di komputer sehingga akses internet dapat terbatasi untuk situs-situs yang aman saja.<br />
<br />
Ketiga, Internet memang mempermudah transaksi bisnis, perbankan maupun jual beli barang. Disarankan agar menggunakan transaksi dnegan tingkat keamanan yang aman, berhati-hati dengan nomor kartu kredit, PIN e-banking, sebab penjahat internet siap mengintai setiap saat. Selalu log out setelah Anda log in suatu aplikasi maupun transaksi apa pun. Keadaan tetap log in beresiko jika ada pihak lain yang kemudian melanjutkan aplikasi maupun transaksi terutama untuk akses internet di tempat umum seperti warnet.<br />
<br />
Alvin menyarankan agar kita menggunakan Facebook, twitter dan sebagainya dengan bijaksana dan secukupnya, Lebih baik menggunakannya untuk menguatkan teman dengan menulis status dan comment yang memberkati. Begitu penggunaannya dirasakan memberikan suatu dampak negatif hingga kecanduan, menemukan hal-hal yang tidak kudus, dan sebagainya, harus segera belajar untuk mengendalikan diri, Bahkan kalau perlu dengan tegas mematikan komputernya.<br />
<br />
Kesimpulan<br />
<br />
Dapat disimpulkan bahwa Facebook bagaikan sebilah pisau. Ia bisa bermanfaat untuk digunakan memotong sesuatu. Namun jika disalahgunakan akan sangat berbahaya. Jadi kembali bergantung kepada orang yang menggunakannya. Intinya iman dan teknologi adalah milik Tuhan, dan biarlah keduanya berjalan bersama-sama bagi kemuliaan-Nya.<br />
<br />
Perangkum: Pdt. Petrus F. Setiadarma<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-75498620505738710962010-08-03T09:34:00.000-07:002010-08-03T09:34:30.738-07:00TEKNOLOGI DAN IMAN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFhE_gXcJ3I/AAAAAAAAAV4/XIs_AtlWJpI/s1600/teknologi+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFhE_gXcJ3I/AAAAAAAAAV4/XIs_AtlWJpI/s320/teknologi+1.jpg" /></a></div>Abstraksi<br />
<br />
Allah Pencipta telah menciptakan langit dan bumi ini dengan segala isinya, dan manusia yang diciptakan menurut gambar dan rupa Allah diberi-Nya mandat untuk menguasai dan menaklukkan alam ciptaan Tuhan itu.<br />
Patut disayangkan jika kemudian manusia menelantarkan alam ciptaan Tuhan, atau mungkin mengusahakannya namun tanpa perkenanan Tuhan, karena hanya ditujukan untuk kepuasan diri sendiri belaka. Seharusnya manusia mengembangkan diri dan kemampuannya dalam ilmu pengetahuan dan teknologi (iptek) untuk mengusahakan alam demi kesejahteraan seluruh umat manusia. Belum lagi kemudian terjadi ketegangan antara iman dan teknologi. Dimana seharusnya keduanya dapat seiring sejalan bahkan bias saling berupaya meniadakan.<br />
Alkitab memberikan kepada kita cara bagaimana hidup dalam iman dan tetap belajar mengembangkan dan memanfaatkan teknologi (yang telah terseleksi) bagi kesejahteraan seluruh umat manusia dan bagi kemuliaan-Nya.<br />
<br />
1. Latar Belakang<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
Manusia hidup dalam dunia yang terus berubah. Perubahan pun terjadi demikian cepatnya, sehingga sering kali tidak tersusul oleh orang-orang yang mau mempelajarinya. Perubahan yang cepat itu dipacu oleh perkembangan ilmu pengetahuan dan teknologi. Teknologi adalah penerapan ilmu pengetahuan dalam kehidupan umat manusia untuk mempermudah berbagai kegiatan yang dilakukan, dan pada gilirannya mendatangkan kesejahteraan bagi seluruh umat manusia. Penguasaan atas teknologi menjadi prioritas utama negara-negara maju. Mereka yang menguasai teknologi akan mampu menguasai dunia.<br />
Sementara itu, ada orang-orang percaya (baca: Kristen) yang belum sepakat dalam mempelajari, memahami dan menggunakan teknologi, apalagi memajukan teknologi itu sendiri. Karena teknologi merupakan hasil nalar atau akal budi, maka itu dianggap bertentangan dengan iman. Padahal berbagai pelayanan gereja masa kini banyak didukung oleh hasil perkembangan teknologi: bangunan fisik, bangku dan mimbar, penerangan, alat-alat musik, barang cetakan, sarana presentasi (overhead projector atau LCD), kendaraan, dan banyak lagi yang lain.<br />
Di sisi lain, bagi para teknolog sendiri, iman dipandang sebagai penghambat kemajuan teknologi karena dianggap mempercayai sesuatu yang tidak masuk akal.<br />
Muncullah pergumulan bahkan ketegangan antara Teknologi dan Iman. Beberapa judul buku klasik karya John William Draper (1811-1882), “History of the Conflict Between Religion and Science,”, tulisan Andrew Dickson White (1832 – 1918), “Warfare of Science with Theology in Christendom,” dan karya George Burman Foster “Finality of the Christian Religion,” (1892) menunjukkan bahwa pergumulan di antara keduanya terus berlangsung.<br />
Tulisan ini dibuat dengan maksud melihat sejauh mana pergumulan itu terjadi dan mencoba menyajikan suatu solusi dalam mengatasi ketegangan tersebut.<br />
<br />
2. Selayang Pandang Sejarah Perkembangan Ilmu Pengetahuan dan Teknologi (Iptek)<br />
<br />
Untuk dapat memahami ketegangan antara Iptek dan Iman sangatlah bijaksana jika sejenak melihat perkembangan Iptek dan sejauh mana orang-orang Kristen terlibat di dalamnya.<br />
3.1. Zaman Kuno<br />
<br />
Sebagai bagian dari kebudayaan, teknologi sama tuanya dengan umur umat manusia. Dalam Kejadian 4:20-22 dapat dibaca nama-nama seperti Yabal, Yubal, dan Tubal-Kain beserta industri dan teknologi yang mereka kuasai, yaitu kemah (teknik sipil dan arsitektur), ternak (teknologi pertanian, peternakan, dan perikanan), kesenian (teknologi penunjang entertainment), dan pertukangan (teknik mesin dan teknik industri).<br />
Bangsa-bangsa Babilonia, Sidon, Mesir purbakala, Sumeria, bangsa Inca (Mexico) telah menghasilkan beragam peralatan teknik atau hasil karya teknologi mereka yang luar biasa, yaitu dalam upaya mereka mengatasi berbagai kesulitan dan tantangan hidup.<br />
<br />
3.2. Abad Pertengahan<br />
<br />
Pada Abad Pertengahan beberapa eksperimen ilmu pasti dan beraneka teori yang baru mulai dilakukan. Diawali dengan Fransiscus dari Asisi (1182-1226) yang mendirikan Ordo Fratrum Minorum (OFM) atau Ordo Saudara Hina-dina. Para pengikut ordo ini terdorong untuk menaruh minat terhadap isi dunia ciptaan dan segala keindahannya. Salah seorang imam bernama Roger Bacon (1220-1292) mempersembahkan karyanya Opus Maius (Karya Besar) yang merupakan rangkuman ide-ide ilmiah pada zaman itu.<br />
Khusus mengenai astronomi (ilmu falak), gereja dan orang-orang pada zaman itu memegang teori Geosentris yang dikemukakan oleh Claudius Ptolomeus (± 100-168), dimana bumi menjadi pusat peredaran planet-planet.<br />
<br />
3.3.Zaman Modern<br />
<br />
Yang dimaksud dengan zaman teknologi modern dimulai pada zaman Renaissance (abad XV dan XVI). Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519), misalnya, dikenal bukan hanya sebagai seorang seniman dan pemahat, melainkan juga seorang arsitek, insinyur, ahli filsafat dan pandai mengadakan eksperimen di bidang optik, mekanik, dan hidrolik.<br />
Jadi pada zaman itu eksperimen (percobaan) dan penyelidikan memainkan peranan yang penting di dalam iptek. Penemuan-penemuan seperti: teropong bintang, mikroskop, termometer, barometer pesawat bandul, alat-alat anatomi, dan sebagainya, memberi dorongan yang sangat kuat kepada perkembangan iptek. Beberapa ilmuwan terkenal yang hidup pada zaman itu, antara lain: Nicolaus Copernicus (1473-1543), Tycho Brahe (1546-1601), Giordano Bruno (1547-1600), yang mengemukakan ide-ide berkaitan dengan kosmologi (ajaran mengenai segala sesuatu yang dapat diketahui tentang alam semesta, khususnya tentang terjadinya.<br />
Iptek menjadi semakin berkembang karena Francis Bacon (1561-1626), seorang negarawan Inggris dan pelopor filsafat Empirisme menyatakan, “Pengetahuan adalah kekuatan!” Ia berpendapat bahwa satu-satunya dasar pengetahuan ialah pengalaman indera saja.<br />
Tokoh yang paling menonjol dan akhirnya mendobrak kosmologi kuno adalah Galileo Galilei (1564-1642). Tulisan-tulisannya mengenai astronomi mendapatkan pertentangan dari pimpinan Gereja saat itu. Selanjutnya, Renè Descartes (1596-1650) menulis buku La Monde di mana untuk pertama kalinya seseorang mencoba menerangkan alam semesta dengan istilah-istilah ilmu mekanika. Descartes mampu mendamaikan teologia saat itu yaitu teologi Thomas Aquinas dengan ide-ide mekanis ilmu pengetahuan yang baru.<br />
Kemudian muncullah E. Toricelli (1608-1647) yang terkenal karena penyelidikannya mengenai barometer (alat pengukur berat tekanan udara). Kemudian alat ini berkembang menjadi termometer yang disempurnakan oleh G.D. Fahrenheit (1686-1736). Ada pula nama Robert Boyle (1627-1691) di bidang kimia-fisika. Ilmuwan terkenal Isaac Newton (1642-1727) menjadi berkat bagi dunia dengan Teori Gravitasinya. Ia adalah seorang Kristen yang taat beribadat, dan mempergunakan waktu yang sama banyak untuk teologi seperti untuk ilmu pengetahuan. Keteraturan alam semesta ini merupakan bukti keberadaan dan kebaikan Tuhan. Tokoh lainnya adalah G.W. Leibniz (1646-1716) sebagai ahli sejarah, hukum, bahasa, ilmu pasti dan alam, teologi dan filsafat.<br />
Pada abad XVII dan XIX menyusul adanya kerjasama yang erat antara ilmu pengetahuan alamiah dan teknologi yang menelorkan apa yang disebut “Revolusi Industri yang pertama”, di mana di sana muncul nama-nama terkenal seperti:<br />
<br />
* Leonhard Euler (1707-1783), seorang ahli ilmu pasti, alam dan astronomi. Sekalipun ia menjadi buta, namun tetap aktif dalam hampir semua lapangan ilmu pasti.<br />
* James Watt (1736-1819) pembuat peralatan teknik dan konstruksi mesin, penemu mesin uap.<br />
* A.L. Lavoisier (1743-1794) yang membuktikan bahwa oksigen memegang peranan penting dalam pembakaran<br />
* John Dalton (1766-1844) meletakkan dasar untuk teori atom modern dan merumuskan beberapa hukum dasar dalam ilmu kimia.<br />
* André Ampère (1775-1836) yang menekuni arus listrik<br />
* Michael Faraday (1791-1867) yang berasal dari kelompok yang percaya akan setiap perkataan dalam Alkitab secara harafiah, sehingga ia mendekati semua hal secara lurus dan sederhana.<br />
* J.C. Maxwell (1831-1879) yang mengemukakan teori-teori sifat fisika atom.<br />
<br />
Memasuki abad XX dan seterusnya terus terjadi penemuan-penemuan yang luar biasa, antara lain:<br />
<br />
* Thomas Alva Edison (1847-1931) penemu lampu pijar<br />
* Wilbur Wright (1867-1912) bersama saudaranya, Orville Wirght, yang menekuni masalah penerbangan<br />
* Albert Einstein (1879-1955) yang menciptakan teori relativitas yang merupakan dasar dari Teori Kwantum. Pada tahun 1921 ia menerima hadiah Nobel.<br />
* Dan seterusnya iptek terus berkembang sebagaimana dapat dirasakan manfaat sekaligus bahayanya di abad XXI ini.<br />
<br />
3. Faktor-faktor Keagamaan dalam Revolusi Ilmiah<br />
<br />
Dalam masa antara abad XII dan XVII terjadi serangkaian kejadian penting bersamaan dengan munculnya akelompok-kelompok para pemikir yang luar biasa. Masa itu benar-benar adalah masapenyelidikan dan penemuan di segala bidang: secara geografis, intelektual, sosial dan Perhatian positif pada kodrat dan martabat manusia.<br />
Pada awal Abad Pertengahan teknologi dan kehidupan kebudayaan dari kaum ningrat dan biarawan diperluas kepada kaum warga kota biasa. Pemikiran tajam golongan pedagang memajukan sikap rasional dan kritis, lepas dari kebiasaan yang dipertahankan oleh kalangan kaum priyayi dan birokrat. Memang semua faktor itu terdapat pula dalam kebudayaan-kebudayaan lain sebelumnya: di Tiongkok atau di Yunani atau pad amasa jaya kebudayaan Islam. Sekalipun demikian, tidaklah terjadi revolusi ilmu pengetahuan dalam lingkungan kebudayaan tersebut. Kenyataan ini mendorong para sarjana mempertimbangkan kemungkinan pengaruh Kekristenan pada fajar ilmu pengetahuan itu. Meskipun tidak semuanya, namun banyak di antara para sarjana berpendapat bahwa pengaruh Kekristenan ini merupakan faktor yang menentukan.<br />
Kala itu, Gereja mengambil sikap ragu-ragu terhadap munculnya ilmu pengetahuan. Lama Gereja berpegang teguh pada ajaran Agustinus dari Hippo, yang berpendapat bahwa ilmu tidak boleh dikejar demi ilmu itu sendiri saja, melainkan harus demi kemuliaan Allah dan demi pengabdian kepada ilmu teologia. Tetapi perguruan-perguruan yang didirikan oleh Kaisar Karl Agung (742-814) pada abad IX dan pertumbuhan biara-biara menyebabkan agara Kristen mulai mencari segi-segi positif pengajaran klasik (yaitu Yunani dan Romawi) dan sikap-sikap yang menyertainya. Di bagian dunia Kristen Timur, pemikiran Yunani kuno itu diintegrasikan dengan pelajaran Kristen di sekolah-sekolah dan dihubungkan dengan Ibadat Ilahi dan Kebijaksanaan Allah. Karena alasan-alasan teologis dan politis, cara pendekatan ini tidak diterima di dunia Barat. Maka tradisi Byzantium ini mula-mula tidak diperhatikan dan kemudian karena kemenangan bangsa Turki, akhirnya hilang.<br />
Tetapi dalam masa yang Revolusi Ilmiah ini, beberapa tradisi kalangan Gereja Ortodoks sampai juga ke dunia Barat. Yang lebih penting ialah bahwa Akibat kemajuan intelektual golongan Islam, para sarjana Barat terpaksa memberikan Perhatian kepada segi-segi positif tradisi Yunani ini. Pada abad XII universitas-universitas Islam di Spanyol telah mulai menentukan irama kemajuan perguruan dan membela agama. Ini merupakan tantangan bagi umat Kristiani. Pendirian universitas-universitas Kristen dan berdirinya Ordo Dominikan merupakan bagian jawaban Gereja terhadap tantangan ini. Hasilnya adalah karya Thomas Aquinas yang mengambilalih superioritas para sarjana Islam dengan “menasranikan” Aristoteles. Dan pada waktu filsafat Aristoteles diassimilasikan di kalangan sarjana Kristen, filsafat itu dipandang sebagai bidat.<br />
Di satu pihak usaha sarjana Kristen berhasil memulihkan integritas intelektual agama Kristen, dan di lain pihak menjelaskan dan sekaligus membatasi kedudukan dan peranan akal budi dan pemikiran. Pembedaan jelas antara pikiran dan wahyu, pemberian peran pada akal budi dan devosi dalam perumusan kembali iman dan tekanan bahwa Allah bertindak secara “masuk akal”, semuanya itu memungkinkan timbulnya gerakan ilmiah yang tak mungkin terwujud sebelumnya. Itu semua adalah sumbangan buah pikiran Thomas Aquinas yang sangat berharga dan menentukan. Ia terutama menegaskan kembali ajaran mengenai Penciptaan menurut pengertian Kristen. Ia mempertemukan gagasan Penggerak Utama (menurut Aristoteles) dengan gagasan Allah dan Bapa Yesus Kristus. Hal ini membangkitkan kembali minat Kristiani akan susunan dan tatatertib dalam alam semesta.<br />
Ajaran mengenai Penciptaan (yang disejajarkan lagi dengan Penebusan) mengandung pengertian bahwa alam dapat dimengerti, tunduk kepada hukum-hukum dan serba teratur. Hal ini menjadi salah satu patokan ilmu pengetahuan modern yang tidak dipersoalkan lagi. Pandangan ini menyatakan pula bahwa rincian Penciptaan hanya dapat diketahui dengan mengamatinya, – sesuatu yang diakui oleh Aristoteles, tetapi tidak oleh para pemikir klasik sejamannya. Sekali lagi, ajaran mengenai Penciptaan – sebagaimana disajikan oleh imam-imam Fransiskan mengandung suatu sikap positif terhadap dunia ciptaan Allah. Berbeda dengan abad-abad sebelumnya yang mementingkan dunia akhirat saja, karena hidup ini adalah jorok, jahat dan pendek, suasana iman yang baru ini mengakui bahwa semua yang diciptakan Allah adalah baik, kecuali dosa yang dilakukan manusia.<br />
Memang, kesalahan mengingkari diri tetap dipertahankan dan kematian, pengadilan di hari akhirat, sorga dna neraka tetap merupakan hal-hal yang menarik perhatian banyak orang. Hal ini dinyatakan dalam lukisan-lukisan karya Michaelangelp dan Grünewald. Tetapi peranan manusia dalam penciptaan, seperti dipaparkan dalam pasal-pasal pertama Kitab Kejadian, kini dipandang sama pentingnya dengan kisah dosa pertama. Selanjutnya dengan timbulnya kembali minat akan Kitab Suci yang sejalan dengan penemuan kembali Perhatian Gereja terhadap studi, timbul pula penghargaan baru atas kehendak Allah yang dinamis. Thomas Aquinas sudah mengemukakan hal ini dalam ajarannya mengenai Allah selaku Penyebab Pertama. Tekanan yang diberikannya pada rencana ilahi dalam penciptaan, menggerakkan manusia untuk melepaskan diri dari sikap takdir yang juga hidup di kalangan umat Kristen sebelumnya. Pengaruh semacam itulah yang memungkinkan timbulnya gerakan baru.<br />
Banyak ahli sejarah mencatat perkembangan nasinalisme, bertambah kuatnya golongan menengah dan sistem kapitalisme yang membantu pertumbuhan ilmu pengetahuan, sebagai Akibat-akibat pengaruh Reformasi. Tentu saja Reformasi merupakan salah satu faktor penting yang mendorong gagasan-gagasan berpikir independen yang tidak selalu sejajar dengan pandangan dunia yang resmi sebagaimana dituntut oleh hirarki Katolik. Hal ini memupuk kepentingan-kepentingan nasional, dan dengan demikian mendorong usaha-usaha industri dan juga riset-riset ilmuiah yang didukung oleh gengsi nasional.<br />
Banyak sarjana Inggris yang aktif pada akhir abad XVI dan permulaan avad XVII adalah pendeta-pendeta. Keleluasaan para pejabat Gereja untuk melibatkan diri dalam persoalan-persoalan umum dan filsafat abad XVII, menyebabkan mereka mampu mendalami filsafat alam yang baru dan rangk apemikiran rasional dari Descartes dan Newton. Dorongan ke arah ilmu pengetahuan dan teknologi yang diberikan oleh tokoh-tokoh Gereja ini memperispkan “dasar” kebudayaan yang memungkinkan timbulnya pengertian baru.<br />
Di antara Gereja-gereja Calvinis, pandangan etis menekankan pekerjaan sebagai suatu hal yang baik bagi manusia. Pekerjaan duniawi lebih dipuji dari pada panggilan masuk biara, dan pentingnya kesejahteraan masyarakat sangat ditekankan. Orang Kristen didorong memuliakan Allah dengan bekerja secara jujur serta rajin, banyak menabung dan bermurah hati dalam mengabdi dengan kekayaan, waktu dan kepandaiannya. John Wesley (1702-1791) – seorang pendeta Gereja Anglikan yang mendirikan gerakan Gereja Methodis merumuskan sikap ini dengan motto: “Peroleh segala yang kamu dapat peroleh, tabung segala yang dapat kamu tabung, berikan segala yang dapat kamu berikan!” Hal ini merupakan benih-benih baik bagi semangat berusaha (entrepreneurship) dalam bidang ekonomi maupun bagi kesejahteraan masyarakat. Usaha ilmiah menunjukkan tanda-tanda keutamaan tersebut dan karenanya dianggap sesuatu yang terberkati. Usaha itu menyatakan hasil buah karya Allah dan meningkatkan hal-hal yang baik pada umat-Nya. Maka manusia dapat mengerti Allah dari alam, karena alam adalah Sebagian dari wahyu Allah kepada manusia.<br />
Dalam kalangan kaum beriman pada masa Rasionalisme, akal budi manusia dipandang sebagai pemberian Allah yang terbesar kepada manusia yang membuat manusia mampu “ikut memikirkan buah pikiran Allah” serta mengambil bagian dalam keilahian-Nya. Pengaruh agama Kristen terhadap kebudayaan yang menjadi dasar tumbuhnya ilmu pengetahuan modern bengitu nyata.<br />
Penyelidikan alam adalah suatu kewajiban Kristiani yang positif. Dalam surat wasiatnya, Robert Voyle mengharapkan agar semua anggota Royal Society mencapai “suatu sukses dalam usaha-usaha mereka yang luhur untuk menemukan kodrat karya Allah yang benar, dan saya mendoakan agar mereka dan orang-orang lain yang menyelidiki kebenaran-kebenaran fisika dengan hati ikhlas dakan menghubungkan hasil-hasil kepandaian mereka dengan kemuliaan Sang Pencipta alam dan demi kesejahteraan umat manusia.”<br />
Sekalipun benar bahwa kadang-kadang Gereja Menentang revolusi ilmiah – kadang-kadang bahkan dengan kekerasan – harus pula diakui, bahwa Kekristenan berjasa besar dalam membentuk sikap dan anggapan yang memungkinkan timbulnya revolusi ilmu pengetahuan itu. Hendaknya diingat, bahwa hampir semua orang yang terlibat dalam revolusi itu adalah orang-orang yang beriman!<br />
<br />
4. Teknologi Atau Iman: Perseteruan<br />
<br />
Ilmu pengetahuan dan Teknologi berkembang lepas dari Iman (baca: Firman Allah) melalui beberapa tahap:<br />
<br />
Pertama, di bidang astronomi dan fisika. Pada abad XVII Galileo dan Kepler menemui persamaan-persamaan antara bumi dengan planet-planet, bulan dan matahari, misalnya peredaran planet yang berbentuk lingkaran tak sempurna dan pegunungan di permukaan bulan. Sebenarnya penemuan ini tidak bertentangan dengan Alkitab, tetapi menentang filsafat Yunani kuno yang mendasari theologia gereja pada masa itu. Hasil pengamatan ilmiah tidak memadai dengan kepercayaan umum. Perselisihan ini merupakan masalah intelektual.<br />
Perselisihan tahap kedua terjadi pada abad XVIII yaitu dalam ilmu pengetahuan alam, teristimewa dalam geologi dan biologi. Hutton, Charles Lyell dan Charles Darwin mengajukan hipotesa bahwa alam senantiasa berubah secara berangsur-angsur. Tetapi motivasi mereka bukan lagi masalah intelektual melainkan moral. Mereka mencari-cari teori-teori yang bertentangan dengan Alkitab. Zaman Es menggantikan Air Bah, Evolusi menggantikan Penciptaan.<br />
Perselisihan tahap ketiga terjadi pada akhir abad XIX dan awal abad XX, terutama pada psikologi, sosiologi, dan antropologi. Jurang perbedaan dengan keterangan Alkitab sudah sedemikian lebar sehingga para sarjana tidak merasakan perselisihan lagi. Alkitab sudah dianggap tidak bermakna.<br />
Tahap keempat dimulai sejak Perang Dunia II. Setelah Perang Dunia I, para sarjana mengusahakan pendidikan di seluruh dunia, dengan keyakinan bahwa pendidikan yang baik dapat menghilangkan peperangan dari seluruh permukaan bumi. Alasannya adalah:<br />
<br />
* pecahnya perang menandai bahwa filsafat dasar mereka keliru;<br />
* faktor kebohongan para sarjana bertambah jelas;<br />
* bertambahnya penemuan-penemuan baru yang tidak sesuai dengan Darwinisme, sehingga banyak sarjana dari pelbagai bidang mulai membuang Teori Evolusi.<br />
<br />
Jika sebelum perang hanya para teolog yang Menentang Evolusi, berdasarkan kebenaran Alkitab. Tetapi sejak Perang Dunia II justru para ilmuwan yang memasuki medan pertempuran sains, dengan meyakini kebenaran Sabda Allah.<br />
Perselisihan babak kelima berlangsung pada masa kini. Selama 40 tahun terakhir banyak penemuan menuntut pemulihan dasar di segala bidang ilmu pengetahuan. Di bidang psikologi-klinis, misalnya, ada suatu gerakan kembali kepada prinsip-prinsip yang sesuai dengan Alkitab. Beberapa kesimpulan filsafat ilmu komputer dan penemuan biokimia tentang replikasi sel manusia, binatang, tumbuhan, menunjukkan kemustahilan Evolusi. Di bidang geologi, penyusutan kekuatan medan magnetis bumi membuktikan bahwa bumi ini sangat muda, tidak melebih 20.000 tahun.<br />
Jika tidak mencermati dengan baik, di balik manfaatnya yang besar, ada cerminan kuasa dosa dan kejahatan dari perkembangan teknologi. Verkuyl telah mengamati beberapa di antaranya, yakni:<br />
<br />
1. Pembalikan urutan alat dan tujuan. Teknologi termasuk alat bukan tujuan! Di bidang teknologi layak dipertanyakan: sebab apa dan untuk apa teknologi itu. Tetapi salah satu hal yang aneh di dalam perkembangan teknologi modern adalah, bahwa manusia hampir lupa kepada pertanyaan tersebut. Contoh yang jelas adalah perkembangan teknik nuklir. Penemuan tenaga atom adalah suatu penemuan yang hebat. Sam apentingnya dengan penemuan api oleh manusia purba. Tetapi jika di dalam penggunaan tenaga nuklir itu kita tidak bertanya, “Untuk apa tenaga itu akan kita pergunakan?” maka tenaga nuklir itu akan menjadi alat yang dipergunakan manusia untuk menghancurkan diri sendiri.<br />
2. Menetralkan atau meniadakan kepribadian. Segala sesuatu yang serba otomatis akibat perkembangan teknologi secara tidak langsung membuat manusia meniadakan kepribadiannya. Teknologi memupuk manusia yang terdorong oleh nafsu untuk hidup tanpa sakit, tanpa kesusahan, tanpa pergumulan, tanpa tanggung jawab, tanpa keputusan-keputusan pribadi.<br />
3. Teknologi menjadi alat kolektivisme dan totaliterisme. Tanpa pernah dipikirkan sebelumnya, perkembangan teknologi memberi kesempatan yang besar kepada sistem-sistem politik totaliter untuk berkembang dengan pesat. Dalam sejarah dunia, tokoh totaliter seperti Adolf Hitler memonopoli segala alat-alat teknik komunikasi seperti: radio, pers, filem, telepon, telegraph, dan sebagainya. Bahkan dinubuatkan bahwa Antikris akan menggunakan peralatan berteknologi tinggi selengkapnya untuk menindas manusia.<br />
4. Menciptakaan keadaan tak bernorma. Ini telah terbukti dimana teknologi audio telah menciptakan dunia hiburan yang tak bermoral. Asal orang berani membayar tinggi, tidak peduli apakah berdampak baik atau tidak, maka peralatan canggih berteknologi tinggi itu pun digunakan.<br />
<br />
5. Teknologi Dan Iman: Persekutuan<br />
<br />
Albert Einstein menyatakan, “Faith without science is blind, and science without faith is cripple.” Itu berarti bahwa baik Teknologi maupun Iman keduanya amat penting dan berguna dalam hidup ini. Keduanya tidak saling bertentangan, melainkan saling melengkapi. Alkitab sendiri menyatakan bahwa kepada manusia Tuhan Allah memberikan mandat budaya dan mandat natural untuk menguasai alam ciptaan Tuhan dan menaklukkannya (Kejadian 1:27-28).<br />
<br />
Alkitab menyatakan kepada kita beberapa tuntunan yang jelas tentang Teknologi:<br />
<br />
1. Teknologi adalah Tugas. Ia adalah tugas yang diberikan Allah Pencipta langit dan bumi, jadi juga tugas yang diberikan oleh Tuhan Yesus Kristus, Juruselamat dunia. Orang yang melakukan suatu penemuan, ia pun taat, dengan sadar atau pun tidak, kepada tugas yang dapat dibaca dari Kejadian 1 berbunyi, “Taklukkanlah bumi!” Dan para pengguna penemuan-penemuan teknologi itu juga taat, dengan sadar atau pun tidak, kepada tugas itu.<br />
2. Teknologi dan Moral. Setiap orang percaya dapat menggali dan mempergunakan teknologi dengan taat dan bertanggung jawab kepada norma-norma Allah. Penyalah-gunaan teknologi dapat ditahan oleh penggunaan teknologi secara positif sesuai dengan norma-norma Tuhan dan dengan perjuangan memberantas penyalahgunaan teknologi.<br />
3. Teknologi dan Mukjizat. Alkitab menyatakan bahwa Alkitab masih bisa berlangsung karena kuasa-Nya tidak berubah (Ibrani 13:8). Di mana suatu ketika teknologi tidak mampu memberikan penyelesaian, maka setiap orang percaya tetap berharap kepada Allah yang hidup untuk menyatakan mukjizat-Nya.<br />
<br />
Untuk lebih memantapkan relasi antara Teknologi dan Iman, penulis mencatat bahwa di abad XX yang lalu beberapa ilmuwan terkenal, peraih hadiah Nobel adalah orang-orang Kristen yang luar biasa, mereka antara lain:<br />
<br />
* Dorothy Hodgkin, kristallografer Inggris, peraih Nobel<br />
* Charles Coulson, pakar fisika matematika terkenal<br />
* Sir Robert Boyd, perintis bidang fisika sinar X atmosfir atas<br />
* Werner von Braun, bapak program ruang akasa Amerika<br />
* Francis Collins, penemu gen sistik fibrosis<br />
* Allan Sandage, astronom terkenal di Observatorium Mt. Palomar<br />
<br />
6. Solusi<br />
<br />
Agar ketegangan tidak terus terjadi antara Teknologi dan Iman, penulis mengusulkan beberapa langkah praktis sebagai berikut:<br />
<br />
1. Teknologi dan Iman diperkenalkan kepada anak-anak sedini mungin, baik dalam keluarga, sekolah, lingkup pelayanan gereja atau di masyarakat luas, agar mereka melihat keduanya sebagai dua hal yang saling melengkapi.<br />
2. Mencetak bahan-bahan literatur tentang tokoh-tokoh Kristen yang menjadi penemu-penemu dalam iptek seperti Sir Isaac Newton, Blaise Pascal, dsb.<br />
3. Berbagai bentuk pembinaan iman kepada jemaat, termasuk khotbah (baik di Sekolah Minggu, Pemuda Remaja maupun Umum) diisi materi yang seimbang antara iman dan iptek.<br />
4. Mendorong dan mendukung jemaat yang memiliki kemampuan intelektual yang baik untuk bisa terus belajar, baik berupa beasiswa maupun kemudahan lainnya.<br />
5. Mendatangkan pakar iptek untuk memberikan seminar tentang iptek dalam bahasa yang mudah dicerna oleh jemaat awam.<br />
6. Memberikan tuntunan moral Alkitabiah yang terus menerus agar ketika Teknologi dikuasai dengan baik, tidak digunakan untuk kebanggaan diri dan bersifat destruktif, melainkan untuk memuliakan Tuhan dan bersifat konstruktif.<br />
<br />
<br />
7. Kesimpulan<br />
<br />
Ketegangan antara Iman dan Teknologi itu kadang-kadang memang memberatkan orang-orang beriman, akan tetapi ketegangan ini sekaligus merupakan stimulans atau dorongan untuk memikirkan lebih mendalam lagi arti wahyu ilahi, yang bukan sekedar merupakan huruf-huruf mati, melainkan Sabda Allah yang hidup dan menghidupkan segala zaman.<br />
Dalam pembangunan modern, agama (baca: Kekristenan) diharapkan memainkan peranan positif. Sumbangan itu hanya mungkin bila setiap orang percaya dapat meninggalkan pandangan dunia (worldview), kebiasaan dan struktur sosiologis zaman dahulu yang tidak memadai lagi. Hal ini tidak berarti meninggalkan iman, melainkan menghayati iman yang tetap sama dalam bentuk, perwujudan, cara-cara yang sesuai bagi manusia abad XXI. Jika Kekristenan berhasil menjalankan perannya itu, ia dapat memberi sumbangan yang sangat berharga: membina manusi ayang bertanggung jawab secara etis dan karena itu mampu menggunakan hasil iptek sehingga semua manusia dapat hidup dengan lebih baik.<br />
<br />
8. Daftar Pustaka<br />
<br />
—, Agama dan Ilmu-ilmu Pengetahuan, (saduran dari Wilkes, Keith. Religion and the Science),<br />
Yayasan Cipta Loka Caraka dan Yayasan Perguruan Tinggi Katolik, 1977.<br />
—, Alkitab, Jakarta: Lembaga Alkitab Indonesia, 1999.<br />
Carson, D.A. dan John D. Woodbridge (ed.), God And Culture, Jakarta: Momentum, 2002.<br />
Heath, W. Stanley, Faith And Science, Diktat Kuliah, Bandung: Institut Alkitab Tiranus, 1990.<br />
Schaeffer, Francis A. A Christian World View, Vol. 5: A Christian View of the West, Wheaton,<br />
Illinois: Crossway Books, 1993.<br />
Verkuyl, J. Etika Kristen: Kebudayaan, Jakarta: BPK Gunung Mulia, 1982.<br />
<br />
pdt. drs. petrus f. setiadarma, mdiv.<br />
pfs60@hotmail.com<br />
<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-263347096820133002010-08-03T09:20:00.000-07:002010-08-03T09:20:04.808-07:0010 Kiat Mengembangkan Otak Anak<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFhBqQjomcI/AAAAAAAAAVw/1jJUCJRfihc/s1600/anak+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFhBqQjomcI/AAAAAAAAAVw/1jJUCJRfihc/s320/anak+1.jpg" /></a></div>Dijelaskan oleh Dr Eddy Supriyadi SpA, dari RS Sardjito Yogyakarta, ada dua komponen dasar dalam perkembangan otak anak, yaitu lingkungan yang aman dan pengalaman positif.<br />
<br />
Saat seorang bayi merasa tertekan, otak akan merespon dengan menghasilkan zat kortisol. Kadar kortisol yang tinggi akan memperlambat perkembangan otak. Lingkungan aman dan nyaman diperlukan bayi untuk membantu perkembangan otaknya. Beri respon saat bayi menangis maupun mengoceh.<br />
<br />
Pengalaman yang diterima setiap hari juga akan membantu perkembangan otak anak. Aktivitas yang dilakukan dalam kehidupan sehari-hari, seperti mengajak anak ke pasar atau ke toko buku, menurut dokter anak lulusan UGM ini, sangat penting untuk pembentukan jaringan perkembangan sel otak.<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
Dr Eddy memberikan 10 tips bagi orangtua untuk membangun dasar perkembangan otak anak:<br />
1. Beri perawatan dan kasih sayang yang adekuat selama masa kehamilan.<br />
<br />
2. Beri nutrisi yang cukup. Enam bulan pertama kehidupan bayi, berikan kecukupan nutrisi dengan ASI.<br />
<br />
3. Berikan lingkungan yang aman dan nyaman bagi anak.<br />
<br />
4. Berbicaralah kepada bayi. Buat kontak mata saat berbicara dengan anak. Jangan lupa selalu tersenyum kepada anak.<br />
<br />
5. Bila harus menitipkan anak, carilah tempat penitipan yang bermutu tinggi.<br />
<br />
6. Kenalkan aneka ragam musik pada anak, dan bernyanyilah bersama.<br />
<br />
7. Beri interaksi yang nyata dengan anak demi perkembangan otaknya. Jangan biarkan anak menonton televisi terlalu lama. Batasi waktunya.<br />
<br />
8. Beri ruang bagi anak untuk dapat berinteraksi dengan teman sebaya.<br />
<br />
9. Redakan stres pada orangtua. Orangtua yang mengalami stres cenderung mengalihkan stres kepada anaknya. Bila Anda merasa stres, cobalah bercerita kepada orang yang dekat dengan Anda.<br />
<br />
10. Ingat, otak tidak akan pernah berhenti berkembang. Jadi, beri stimulasi sebanyak-banyaknya secara terus-menerus.<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-25114036779595027672010-08-03T09:14:00.000-07:002010-08-03T09:14:03.713-07:00Tips Agar Anak Autis Mau Diajak Bicara<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFhAM3M-nOI/AAAAAAAAAVc/_bm-XzuPO1E/s1600/autis+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFhAM3M-nOI/AAAAAAAAAVc/_bm-XzuPO1E/s320/autis+2.jpg" /></a></div>Sindrom antisosial, yang menghinggapi anak-anak mulai usia 2 tahun ini, terlihat dari keengganan pengidapnya untuk berkomunikasi atau berbicara dengan orang lain. Hal ini menyebabkan anak autis terkadang tidak menyatu dengan lingkungan. Akibatnya, orangtua jadi sulit untuk mengetahui keinginan dan kebutuhan si anak.<br />
<br />
Agar Anda dapat mengajak anak autis berkomunikasi lebih baik, ikuti tips dari sekolah autis D'Knot berikut:<br />
<br />
1. Jadilah teladan. Biasakan untuk fokus mendengarkan anak ketika ia sedang berbicara, maka mereka juga akan mencontoh.<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
2. Saat berbicara, pastikan Anda mendapatkan perhatian penuh dari si anak. Bila ia sedang sibuk, tunggulah hingga ia siap mendengarkan Anda. Misalnya dengan mematikan TV atau radio yang bisa membuatnya berkonsentrasi pada Anda.<br />
<br />
3. Bicaralah sebagai sahabat, bukan orangtuanya. Anak autis akan lebih menaruh perhatian pada orangtua yang menempatkan mereka sebagai sahabat. Coba saja perhatikan, mereka akan lebih menaruh perhatian saat berbicara dengan sahabatnya.<br />
<br />
4. Sampaikan pesan dengan suara jelas, berintonasi, dan singkat! Contohnya, "Ayo makan malam sekarang, yuk!". Hindari kata, "Wah, sudah jam berapa ini? Sudah lapar belum? Kita makan yuk, nanti kemalaman lho. Kalau kemalaman, besok bangunnya kesiangan."<br />
<br />
5. Sesuaikan pemilihan kata-kata sesuai dengan usianya.<br />
<br />
6. Beri contoh, misalnya untuk makanan. Jika Anda menyuruhnya untuk makan sayur, maka Anda yang harus lebih dulu memberikan contoh. Selain itu, lakukan dengan konsisten.<br />
<br />
7. Biasakan berbicara hanya sekali saja, dan tidak mengulang. Namun buat ia mendengarkan dengan seksama. Jika ia menunda, maka berikan hukuman (non fisik).<br />
<br />
8. Asah agar keterampilannya untuk mendengarkan menjadi lebih baik. Seperti yang kita tahu, anak autis tidak suka berbicara, namun senang membaca dan mendengarkan musik. Anda bisa memperdengarkan musik atau membacakan buku cerita padanya.<br />
<br />
9. Berkomunikasilah setiap hari. Ajak ia untuk lebih sering mengikuti setiap kegiatan yang ia gemari.<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-10780343914472506572010-08-03T09:11:00.000-07:002010-08-03T09:11:36.237-07:00Kenali Lebih Dekat Anak Autis<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFg_qP5HOqI/AAAAAAAAAVU/jw0Ofk8x2Ks/s1600/autis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFg_qP5HOqI/AAAAAAAAAVU/jw0Ofk8x2Ks/s320/autis.jpg" /></a></div>APAKAH buah hati Anda memiliki rasa tertarik pada dunia lain? Atau apakah anak Anda sulit menatap mata lawan bicara? Bila iya, kemungkinan dia mengidap autisme. Segeralah bertindak. <br />
<br />
Sepintas anak ini terlihat sangat normal, tetapi anak autis memiliki tingkah laku yang berbeda dari anak-anak lain. Penyebabnya tak lain karena sistem syaraf pusat mereka berkembang tidak sempurna sehingga mereka pun mengalami kesulitan dalam memahami bahasa, proses belajar, serta berkomunikasi. Butuh ketekunan serta kesabaran ekstra bagi para orangtua yang memiliki anak autis.<br />
<br />
Direktur Intervention Services for Autism Development Delay Disorder (ISADD) yang berbasis di Australia, Jura Tender mengakui, betapa sulit mendeteksi autisme sejak dini. Karena secara fisik bayi tampak sehat-sehat saja. Seiring berjalannya waktu, orangtua hanya melihat sedikit saja perbedaan. <br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
Misalnya anak tidak terlalu banyak bicara, tidak suka disentuh, dan posisi tubuhnya sering aneh. Masalahnya, banyak orangtua yang tidak terlalu memerhatikan sekaligus peduli akan hal itu. Mereka lantas menganggapnya sebagai suatu hal yang wajar. ”Padahal, orangtua seharusnya cepat bertindak dan hadapi kenyataan tersebut. Jangan sampai kondisi anak terlanjur parah hanya karena orangtua menganggapnya enteng,” ujar Jura mengingatkan. <br />
<br />
Sedikitnya ada beberapa kriteria autisme yang dapat diperhatikan. Anak autis mengalami gangguan dalam interaksi sosial, di antaranya rendahnya kemampuan berinteraksi sosial melalui komunikasi nonverbal, seperti kontak mata, ekspresi muka, dan gerakgerik tubuh. Anak pun tidak mampu berinteraksi sosial dalam kelompok selayaknya anak-anak seusianya. <br />
<br />
Mereka juga tidak mampu memberikan reaksi secara sosial dan emosional atas apa yang terjadi. Misalnya tidak mampu menunjukkan simpati ketika orang lain bersedih ataupun tidak membalas ketika dipeluk. Anak autisme pun mengalami keterlambatan atau ketidakmampuan berbicara, bahasa yang digunakan cenderung berulang-ulang, kaku, khas, dan agak aneh. Mereka yang menderita autisme sering melakukan kegiatan, bertingkah laku, dan merasa tertarik pada sesuatu yang berulangulang serta terbatas. Seperti rasa tertarik yang cenderung abnormal dari segi fokus dan intensitas terhadap suatu kegiatan yang terbatas. Sebut saja kebiasaan me ngulang-ulang sebuah adegan dari film atau video secara terus-menerus atau berjalan tanpa henti dalam bentuk lingkaran. <br />
<br />
Atau mungkin juga anak memiliki kebiasaan rutin yang harus diikuti dan sering kali tidak bermakna. ”Misalnya harus melalui jalan tertentu menuju ke sekolah atau hanya mau tidur dengan menggunakan baju tertentu,” kata Gayatri Pamoedji selaku pendiri Masyarakat Peduli Autisme Indonesia (MPATI) yang juga memiliki putra yang mengidap autis ini. <br />
<br />
Sejatinya, autisme adalah gangguan perkembangan yang sangat kompleks pada anak. Sering kali gejala tampak sebelum anak mencapai usia tiga tahun. Menurut sebuah penelitian di Amerika, autisme terjadi kurang lebih pada 10 anak dari 10.000 kelahiran. Kemungkinan terjadinya empat kali lebih sering pada bayi laki-laki dibandingkan perempuan. <br />
<br />
Faktor genetik memang disebut sebagai salah satu kemungkinan terjadinya autisme. Namun, sampai sekarang belum ada penelitian lebih lanjut yang menyebutkan apakah faktor genetik ini berasal dari ayah atau ibu. Keduanya memiliki peluang yang sama. Hanya, sifat autis lebih terlihat nyata pada saudara sekandung lelaki dari pihak ibu maupun ayah, jika memang ada karakteristik autis pada keluarga tersebut. <br />
<br />
Penyebab utama dari gangguan ini hingga saat kini memang masih terus diselidiki oleh para ahli. Kendati demikian, di samping faktor genetik, faktor-faktor berikut disebut-sebut sebagai pemicu penyakit ini, yakni keracunan logam berat, vaksinasi MMR (Mumps, Measles, Rubella), polusi lingkungan, alergi terhadap makanan tertentu seperti gandum dan produk susu, serta komplikasi sebelum dan setelah melahirkan. <br />
<br />
Gayatri menyarankan orangtua yang memiliki anak dengan gangguan tersebut untuk melakukan terapi secara rutin. ”Menemukan terapi yang tepat bagi anak memang merupakan sebuah perjalanan panjang. Orangtua perlu mengetahui apa yang dibutuhkan dan apa yang tersedia untuk memenuhi kebutuhannya,” ujar wanita yang mengambil Master of Health Conselling dari Curtin University of Technology ini. <br />
<br />
Terapi yang tepat, lanjut Gayatri, adalah terapi yang mengikis keterbatasan anak, melibatkan anak, sudah terbukti keabsahannya, dapat diukur hasilnya, mempertimbangkan kelebihan maupun keterbatasan, serta menggunakan hal-hal yang disukai oleh anak.<br />
<br />
Terapi yang tepat justru akan membuat kehidupan keluarga lebih tidak stres karena anak sudah mulai mampu untuk mandiri dan berinteraksi dengan anggota keluarga. <br />
<br />
Yang perlu orangtua ingat adalah, cocok atau tidaknya terapi untuk anak ditentukan oleh kebutuhan dan kemampuan sang anak. Jadi, sebaiknya orangtua mencari tahu, membuat daftar kebutuhan, serta keterbatasan dan kelebihan sang anak.<br />
<br />
Untuk menjalani terapi ini, para ahli menyarankan agar anak autis diberikan terapi selama 25–40 jam dalam seminggu. Hal ini tidak menjadi masalah, sebab pada umumnya anak autis tidak mengalami gangguan perkembangan fisik sehingga tetap perlu diberi stimulasi. <br />
<br />
Lamanya anak menjalani terapi, bisa dibilang hingga dia mampu mandiri dan berpartisipasi dalam lingkungan sosialnya. Semua ini ditentukan oleh kemampuan anak dan orangtua. Jika anak sudah mampu menerapkan atau mencapai target terapi tanpa harus diingatkan atau diarahkan, tidak hanya di kelas terapi tapi juga di rumah, maka dia terbilang sudah mampu dan kompeten.<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-58449353800738905152010-08-03T09:08:00.000-07:002010-08-03T09:08:04.465-07:00Tips Mengatasi Anak Susah Makan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFg-yR0LsnI/AAAAAAAAAVM/AiTIP8GeasQ/s1600/index.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFg-yR0LsnI/AAAAAAAAAVM/AiTIP8GeasQ/s320/index.jpg" /></a></div>Masalah anak susah makan kebanyakan dialami oleh ibu yg bekerja di luar rumah. Karenanya meskipun bekerja dilar rumah ,seyogyanya orang tua tetap mengetahui perkembangan makan anak sehari-hari. Yang penting supaya gizi anak seibang orang tua perlu tahu berapa jumlah makanan sehari-hari yg harus diberikan keada anak balitanya. Untuk membantu mengatasi anak ssah makan orang tua perlu melakukan beberapa hal:<br />
<br />
1. Pemberian makan sesuai umur. Setelah usia 4 bulan mulai diberi makanan pendamping(bubur susu),usia 6 bln nasi tim,usia 8 bln-1 thn mulai makanan dicincang,setelah 1 thn dpt dikenalkan makanan keluarga. Karena jika tdk mulai dikenalkan anak akan susah makan.<br />
<br />
2. Jangan memberi porsi susu berlebihan. Hal ini akan menyebabkan anak kenyang sehingga susah makan.<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
3. Berikan makanan selingan namun jangan berlebihan. Diberikan diantara jam makan anak.makanan jangan manis-manis atau asin karena akan mengurangi selera makan anak.<br />
<br />
4. Agar nafsu makan anak bertambah usahakan suasana makan yang nyaman.Ajak si kecil makan dengan penuh kasih sayang.<br />
<br />
5. Jika anak masih susah makan periksakan ke dokter mungkin ada kelainan dalam organ tubuh. Jika tidak ada kelainan mintalah vitamin untuk merangsang nafsu makannya<br />
<br />
6. Disiplin dengan waktu makan anak. Karena kalau sudah melewati waktu makan anak tidak merasa lapar lagi.<br />
<br />
Pesan untuk ibu bekerja:<br />
<br />
1. Persiapkan makanan yang akan diberikan untuk balita anda.<br />
<br />
2. Pada jam makan cek kegiatan makan balita anda.<br />
<br />
3. Timbang berat badannya untuk memastikan balita anda kecukupan gizi.<br />
<br />
4. Selagi bisa (ada waktu)dengan si kecil kerjakan sendiri segala hal yang berhubungan dengan si kecil.<br />
<br />
5. Adakan waktu rekreasi dengan si kecil, agar punya wawasan dan merasakan kebersamaan dengan keluarganya.<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-36673601926844042852010-08-03T09:05:00.000-07:002010-08-03T09:05:30.729-07:00Tips Peran Ayah Dalam Pertumbuhan Anak<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFg-OEF9DYI/AAAAAAAAAVE/Bo6wvDop958/s1600/baby_smile_bnw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFg-OEF9DYI/AAAAAAAAAVE/Bo6wvDop958/s200/baby_smile_bnw.jpg" width="151" /></a></div>Hasil riset dan para psikologi banyak yang menyatakan bahwa peran ayah sangat penting dalam pertumbuhan seorang anak. Ikatan emosional antara ayah dan anak, ditentukan salah satunya oleh interaksi antara ayah dan anak itu sendiri. Interaksi yang baik antara anak dan ayah ini, dikatakan sangat mempengaruhi kecerdasan emosional seorang anak yang membuatnya tumbuh menjadi sosok dewasa yang berhasil.<br />
<br />
Bagaimana seorang ayah yang sibuk bekerja di luar tetap bisa mempererat dan menjalin ikatan emosional ini?<br />
<br />
Banyak kendala yang dihadapi seorang ayah untuk meluangkan waktunya merawat anak karena kesibukan di luar.<br />
<br />
Di bawah ini adalah tips-tips bagi Seorang Ayah :<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
1. Persiapkan diri Anda sedini mungkin sejak istri Anda hamil<br />
<br />
Seorang suami sudah terlibat dalam pembuahan seorang anak, yang menjadikan istrinya mengandung. Masa kehamilan selama 9 bulan ini dapat Anda gunakan untuk mempersiapkan diri Anda sebagai seorang ayah. Berperan aktif lah Anda sebagai seorang suami sekaligus calon ayah dengan membantu kehamilan istri.<br />
<br />
Mengikuti persiapan persalinan berupa senam, membaca buku bersama mengenai kehamilan, cara merawat bayi atau berbelanja bersama untuk menyambut kelahiran sang bayi. Bila memungkinkan temanilah istri Anda dalam persalinan. Melihat langsung perjuangan istri Anda, dan detik-detik terdengarnya tangisan bayi yang lahir ke dunia ini, akan menambahkan rasa sayang dan kasih Anda baik kepada istri maupun anak Anda.<br />
<br />
2. Ikut aktif merawat bayi<br />
<br />
Sedari awal menjelang kelahiran, cobalah ikut aktif merawat bayi Anda. Salah seorang peneliti menemukan bahwa para ayah yang mulai mengganti popok, memandikan, dan mengasuh bayi mereka sejak dini, akan besar kemungkinan melakukan kegiatan semacam itu pada bulan-bulan selanjutnya.<br />
<br />
Tips bagi ibu..., biarkanlah suami Anda ikut merawat dan mengasuh dengan gayanya sendiri, Anda bisa memberikan dukungan dan dorongan agar suami akan semakin perrcaya diri dalam merawat bayinya. Memberikan masukan dan membetulkan cara merawat akan menambah smooth.<br />
<br />
Bagi keluarga yang mendapatkan pertolongan dari nenek atau saudara lainnya, usahakan lah jangan sampai menganggu porsi sang ayah dalam ikut aktif merawat bayi. Give him the space.<br />
<br />
3. Bermain bersama<br />
<br />
Ketika bayi Anda makin beranjak usia, lewatkan waktu bersama untuk bermain, membaca buku atau melakukan aktivitas yang menyenangkan bagi bayi Anda yang mulai merangkak, mulai belajar berbicara atau berjalan. Ciptakanlah permainan-permainan yang menggairahkan, yang digemari seperti kuda-kudaan, pesawat terbang atau sembunyi sembunyian.<br />
<br />
Sesuaikanlah dengan perkembangan usia anak Anda.<br />
<br />
Membaca, mewarnai atau melakukan keterampilan menggunting, menempel secara bersama-sama.<br />
<br />
4. Terlibat dalam kehidupan sosial anak Anda<br />
<br />
Ketika anak Anda mulai beranjak usia sekolah, dia akan memulai kehidupan sosial yang baru. Usahakan terlibat dalam kehidupan sosial anak Anda, dengan mengenali misalnya nama teman-temannya, dengan siapa dia bergaul, aktivitas yang dia lakukan bersama temannya atau nama guru TK/SD nya.<br />
<br />
5. Jadilah pendengar yang baik<br />
<br />
Kesibukan kerja terkadang membuat Anda mengabaikan cerita-cerita anak Anda. Berikan keseimbangan antar kerja dan keluarga, atau usahakan jangan membawa pekerjaan ke rumah. Luangkan waktu 5 menit saja untuk mendengarkan celotehannya dan mengerti betul isi cerita itu.<br />
<br />
Jangan hanya \\\'meng-iyakan\\\' agar cerita anak itu lekas selesai atau mengatakan nanti ayah sedang sibuk.<br />
<br />
Sebersit wajah kecewa akan nampak dan membuat anak akan semakin malas untuk bercerita pada anda. Akhirnya kebiasaan bercerita dan sharing dari anak akan menghilang. Jadi jangan Anda mengeluh bila anak Anda tidak terbuka suatu hari nanti, karena kebiasaan ini dimulai dari respon Anda sebagai pendengar yang baik atau tidak.<br />
<br />
Dengan menjadi pendengar yang baik, disamping keterbukaan, Anda akan menjadikan anak Anda dapat mengekspresikan dan cakap dalam mengungkapkan sesuatu.<br />
<br />
6. Komunikasi yang baik<br />
<br />
Bila Anda dinas luar atau tinggal terpisah berjauhan dengan anak Anda, usahakan lah tetap menjalin komunikasi dengan baik, melalui telepon atau chatting internet. Tunjukkan perhatian Anda, rasa sayang Anda melalui telepon, sms atau melalui surat.<br />
<br />
7. Percayai anak Anda dan berikan kebebasan<br />
<br />
Jadilah seorang ayah yang memberikan kebebasan dan dapat mempercayai anak Anda. Kepercayaan Anda akan menjadikan dia tumbuh menjadi anak yang percaya diri dan mandiri. Janganlah mendikte dia untuk melakukan A. Tapi cobalah memberikan dia pilihan, misalnya Arif mau A atau mau B? Dan tetaplah membuka kemungkinan pilihan lain selama pilihan itu tidak bertentangan dengan hal prinsip.<br />
<br />
8. Penuhilah sesuai kebutuhannya<br />
<br />
Bertambah dewasa seorang anak, akan semakin bertambah kebutuhannya, semakin beragam dan variatif. Jangan Anda paksakan dan menganggap dia masih kecil sehingga memperlakukan sebagai seorang bayi. <br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-66675129177773515162010-08-02T00:22:00.000-07:002010-08-02T00:22:34.267-07:00Save yourself some pain (Ten tips for new and growing christians)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFZyFCFMQjI/AAAAAAAAAU8/7FnVS1bPi-s/s1600/woman-reading.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFZyFCFMQjI/AAAAAAAAAU8/7FnVS1bPi-s/s200/woman-reading.jpg" width="140" /></a></div>1. feeding on the word—daily nutrition<br />
A healthy baby has a healthy appetite. if you have truly been “born” of the spirit of god, you will have a healthy appetite. the bible says, "as new born babes, desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby" (1 peter 2:2). feed yourself every day without fail. job said, "i have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food" (job 23:12). the more you eat, the quicker you will grow, and the less bruising you will have. speed up the process, and save yourself some pain—vow to read god's word every day, without fail. say to yourself, "no bible, no breakfast. no read, no feed." be like job, put your bible before your belly. if you do that, god promises that you will be like a fruitful, strong and healthy tree (see psalm 1). each day, find somewhere quiet, and thoroughly soak your soul in the word of god.<br />
There may be times when you read through its pages with great enthusiasm, and there may be other times when it seems dry and even boring. but food profits your body whether you enjoy it or not. as a child, you no doubt ate desserts with great <br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
enthusiasm. perhaps vegetables weren't so exciting. if you were a normal child, you probably had to be encouraged to eat them at first. then, as you matured in life you were taught to discipline yourself to eat vegetables, because they would benefit you even though they may not at the time have seemed wet to your palate.<br />
2. Faith—Elevators Can Let You Down<br />
When a young man once looked at me and said, "I find it hard to believe some of the things in the Bible," I smiled and asked, "What's your name?" When he said, “Paul,” I casually answered, "I don't believe you." He looked at me questioningly. I repeated, "What's your name?" Again he said, “Paul,” and again I answered, "I don't believe you." Then I asked, "Where do you live?" When he told me, I said, "I don't believe that either." You should have seen his reaction. He was angry. I said, "You look a little upset. Do you know why? You're upset because I didn't believe what you told me. If you tell me that your name is Paul, and I say, 'I don't believe you,' it means that I think you are a liar. You are trying to deceive me by telling me your name is Paul, when it's not."<br />
Then I told him that if he, a mere man, felt insulted by my lack of faith in his word, how much more does he insult Almighty God by refusing to believe His Word. In doing so, he was saying that God isn't worth trusting—that He is a liar and a deceiver. The Bible says, "He that believes not God has made Him a liar" (1 John 5:10). It also says, "Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief…" (Hebrews 3:12, italics added). Martin Luther said, "What greater insult… can there be to God, than not to believe His promises."<br />
I have heard people say, "But I just find it hard to have faith in God," not realizing the implications of their words. These are the same people who often believe the weather forecast, believe the newspapers, and trust their lives to a pilot they have never seen whenever they fly in a plane. We exercise faith every day. We trust our car's brakes. We trust our history books, our medical books, and we trust elevators. Yet elevators can let us down. History books can be wrong. Planes can crash. How much more then should we trust the sure and true promises of Almighty God. He will never let us down… if we trust Him.<br />
I have often heard cynics say, "The Bible is full of mistakes." It is. The first mistake was when man rejected God, and the Scriptures show men and women making the same tragic mistake again and again. It's also full of what seem to be contradictions. For example, the Scriptures tell us "with God, nothing shall be impossible" (Luke 1:37). We are told that there is nothing Almighty God can't do.<br />
Yet we are also told that it is "impossible for God to lie" (Hebrews 6:18). So there is something God cannot do! There's an obvious “mistake” in the Bible. The answer to this dilemma is to be found in the lowly worm.<br />
Do you know that it would be impossible for me to eat worms, although I have seen it done. I once saw a man on TV butter his toast, then pour on a can of live, fat, wriggling, blood-filled worms. He carefully took a knife and fork, cut into his moving meal, and ate it. It made me feel sick. It was disgusting. The thought of chewing cold, live worms is so repulsive, so distasteful, I can candidly say it would be impossible for me to eat them, even though I have seen it done. It is so abhorrent, I draw on the strength of the word “impossible” to substantiate my claim.<br />
Lying, deception, bearing false witness, etc., is so repulsive to God, so disgusting to Him, so against His holy character, the Scriptures draw on the strength of the word “impossible” to substantiate the claim. He cannot, could not, would not lie.<br />
That means that in a world where we are continually let down, we can totally rely on, trust in, count on His promises. They are sure, certain, indisputable, true, trustworthy, reliable, faithful, unfailing, dependable, steadfast, and an anchor for the soul. In other words, you can truly believe them, and because of that, you can throw yourself, blindfolded, and without reserve into His mighty hands. He will never, ever, let you down.<br />
3. Evangelism—Our Most Sobering Task<br />
It was late in December, 1996. A large family gathered in Los Angeles for the joyous occasion of wrapping Christmas presents. It was a big family because it was the product of two marriages. There were so many gathered that night, five of the children slept in the garage. It was a converted structure, kept warm during the cold night by an electric heater which sat by the door.<br />
During the early hours of the morning, the heater suddenly burst into flames, blocking the doorway. In seconds the room became a blazing inferno. The frantic 911 call revealed the unspeakable terror of the moment. One of the children could be heard screaming, "I'm on fire!" The distraught father vainly rushed into the flames to try and save his beloved children. He received burns to 50% of his body. Tragically, all five of the children burned to death. They died because steel bars on the windows of the garage thwarted their escape. There was only one door, and that was stopped by the flames.<br />
You are back in time. It's minutes before the heater burst into flames. You peer through the darkness at the peaceful sight of five sleeping youngsters. You know that at any moment the room is going to erupt into an inferno, and burn the flesh of horrified children. Can you in good conscience walk away? No! You must awaken them, and warn them to run from that death trap!<br />
The world sleeps peacefully in the darkness of their ignorance. There is only one Door by which they may escape death. The steel bars of sin prevent their salvation, and at the same time call for the flames of Eternal Justice. What a fearful thing Judgment Day will be! The fires of the wrath of Almighty God will burn for eternity. The Church has been entrusted with the task of awakening them before it's too late. We cannot turn our back and walk away in complacency. Think of how the father ran into the flames. His love knew no bounds, and our devotion to the sober task that God has given us will be in direct proportion to our love for the lost. There are only a few who run headlong into the flames to warn them to flee (Luke 10:2). Please be one of them. We really have no choice. The Apostle Paul said, "Woe unto me, if I preach not the Gospel" (1 Corinthians 9:16).<br />
It was the “Prince of Preachers,” Charles Spurgeon, who said the words, "Have you no wish for others to be saved. Then you are not saved yourself. Be sure of that." A Christian cannot be apathetic about the salvation of the world. The love of God in him will motivate him to seek and save that which is lost.<br />
You probably have a limited amount of time after your conversion to impact your unsaved friends and family with the Gospel. After the initial shock of your conversion, they will put you in a neat little ribbon-tied box, and keep you at arm's length. So it's important that you take advantage of the short time you have while you still have ears.<br />
Here's some advice that will save you a great deal of grief. As a new Christian, I did almost irreparable damage by acting like a wild bull in a crystal showroom. I bullied my mom, my dad, and many of my friends into making a “decision for Christ”. I was sincere, zealous, loving, kind, and stupid. I didn't understand that salvation doesn't come through making a “decision,” but through repentance , and repentance is God-given (2 Timothy 2:25). The Bible teaches that no one can come to the Son unless God “draws” him. If you are able to get a decision but they have no conviction of sin, you will almost certainly end up with a still-born on your hands.<br />
In my “zeal without knowledge” I actually inoculated the very ones I was so desperately trying to reach. There is nothing more important to you than the salvation of your loved ones, and you don't want to blow it. If you do, you may find that you don't have a second chance. Fervently pray for them, thanking God for their salvation. Let them see your faith. Let them feel your kindness, your genuine love, and your gentleness. If you have never helped with the dishes, do them without being asked. Buy flowers for your mom or your sister. Give them boxes of candy when it's not their birthday. Put yourself in their position. You know that you have found everlasting life. Death has lost its sting! Your joy is unspeakable—but as far as they are concerned, you have been brain-washed. You have become part of a weird sect. So your loving actions will speak more loudly than ten thousand eloquent sermons.<br />
It is because of these thoughts that you should hold back from verbal confrontation until you have knowledge that will guide your zeal. Pray for wisdom and for a sensitivity to God's timing. You may have only one shot, so make it count. Keep your cool. If you don't, you may end up with a lifetime of regret. Believe me. It is better to hear a loved one or a close friend say, "Tell me about your faith in Jesus Christ," rather than you saying, "Sit down. I want to talk to you."<br />
It is important for you to realize that we should share our faith with others whenever we can. The Bible says that there are only two times we should do this—"in season and out of season" (2 Timothy 4:2). The Apostle Paul pleaded for prayer for his own personal witness. he said, "…that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the Gospel, for which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak" (Ephesians 6:19-20). <br />
Remember that you have the sobering responsibility of speaking to other peoples' loved ones. Many times when you open your mouth for the Gospel, you may be the answer to the earnest prayer of another Christian. Perhaps he has cried out to God that He would use a faithful witness to speak to his beloved mom or dad, and you are that answer to prayer. You are that true and faithful witness that God wants to use.<br />
Never lose sight of the world and all its pains. Keep the fate of the ungodly before your eyes. Too many of us settle down on a padded pew and become introverted. Our world becomes a monastery without walls. Our friends are confined solely to those within the Church, when Jesus was the “friend of sinners.” So take the time to deliberately befriend them for the sake of their salvation. Remember that each and every person who dies in their sins has an appointment with the Judge of the Universe. Hell opens wide its terrible jaws. There is no more sobering task than to be entrusted with the Gospel of Salvation—working with God for the eternal well-being of dying humanity.<br />
4. Prayer—“Wait For A Minute.”<br />
It has been well said that God always answers prayer. Sometimes He says, “Yes.” sometimes He says, “NO.” Sometimes He says, "Wait for a minute," and a day to the Lord is a thousand years to us (2 Peter 3:8). That means that a ten year wait for us, is 14 minutes and 24 seconds to God, so ask in faith, but rest in peace-filled patience.<br />
Surveys show that more than 90% of America prays daily. No doubt they pray for health, wealth, happiness, etc. They also pray when grandma gets sick, and when grandma doesn't get better (or dies), many end up disillusioned, and some end up bitter. This is because they don't understand what the Bible says about prayer. It teaches that sin will stop God even hearing our prayers (Psalm 66:18). It teaches, among other things, that if we pray with doubt, we will not get an answer (James 1:6-7).<br />
Here's how to be heard: <br />
1. Pray with faith (Hebrews 11:6). <br />
2. Pray with clean hands and a pure heart (Psalm 24:3-4). <br />
3. Pray genuine heart-felt prayers, rather than vain repetitions (Matthew 6:7). <br />
4. Make sure that you are praying to the God revealed in the Holy Scriptures (Exodus 20:3-6). <br />
How do you "pray with faith?" Someone once said to me, "Ray, you're a man of great faith in God," thinking that they were paying me a compliment. They weren't. If I said to you, "I'm a man of great faith in my doctor? It's to the doctor. If I have great faith in him, it means that I see him as being a man of integrity, a man of great ability—that he is trustworthy. I give “glory” to the man through my faith in him. The Bible says that Abraham "staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God, being fully persuaded that, what He had promised, He was able to also perform" (Romans 4:20-21). Abraham was a man of great faith in God. Remember, that is not a compliment to Abraham. He merely caught a glimpse of God's incredible ability, His impeccable integrity, and His wonderful faithfulness to keep every promise He makes. His faith gave “glory” to a faithful God.<br />
As far as God is concerned, if you belong to Jesus, you are a VIP. You can boldly come before the throne of Grace (Hebrews 4:16). You have access to the king, because you are the son or daughter of the king. When you were a child, did you have to grovel to get your needs met by your mom or dad? I hope not.<br />
So, when you pray, don't say, "Oh God, I hope you will supply my needs." Instead say something like, "Father, thank you that you keep every promise You make. Your Word says that you will supply all my needs according to Your riches in glory, by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19). Therefore, I thank you that you will do this thing for my family. I ask this in the wonderful name of Jesus. Amen"<br />
It was the great missionary, Hudson Taylor, who said, "The prayer power has never been tried to its full capacity. If we want to see Divine power wrought in the place of weakness, failure, and disappointment, let us answer God's standing challenge, 'Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things of which thou knowest not of.'"<br />
How do you get "clean hands a pure heart?" Simply by confessing your sins to God, through Jesus Christ. His blood cleanses from all sin (1 John 1:7-9). When you confess them to God through Jesus, God will not only forgive your every sin, He promises to forget that sin (Hebrew 8:12). He will even justify you, on the grounds of the sacrifice of the Savior. That means He will count it as though you have never sinned in the first place. He will make you pure in His sight—sinless. he will even “purge” your conscience, so that you will no longer have that sense of guilt that you sinned in the first place. That's what I means "to be justified by faith." That's why you need to soak yourself in Holy Scripture—to read the letters to the churches and see the wonderful things that God has done for us through the Cross of Calvary. If you don't bother to read the will, you won't have any idea of what has been left for you.<br />
How do you pray "genuine heart-felt prayers?" Simply by keeping yourself in the love of God. If the love of God is in you, you will never pray hypocritical or selfish prayers. In fact, you won't have to pray selfish prayers, if you have a heart of love. When your prayer-life is pleasing to God, the Bible says that He will reward you openly (Matthew 6:6).<br />
How do you know that you are praying to "the God revealed in Holy Scripture?" Study the Word. Don't accept the image of God portrayed by the world, even though it appeals to the natural mind. A loving, kind fatherly-figure, with no sense of justice or truth appeals to guilty sinners. Look to the thunderings and lightnings of Mount Sinai. Gaze at Jesus on the cross of Calvary—hanging in unspeakable agony because of the Justice of a holy God. Such thoughts tend to banish idolatry.<br />
5. Warfare—Praise The Lord and Pass the Ammunition<br />
When you became a Christian, you stepped right into the heat of an age-old battle. You have a three-fold enemy—the world, the flesh, and the devil. Before you became a Christian, you floated down stream with the other dead fish. But now, God has put His life within you, and you will find yourself swimming against a three-fold current. Let's look at these three resistant enemies.<br />
First, the world. When the Bible speaks of the “world” in this context, it is referring to the sinful, rebellious, world system. This is the world that loves the darkness and hates the light (John 3:20), governed by the "god of this world" (2 Corinthians 4:4)—the "prince power of the air" (Ephesians 2:2). The Bible says the Christian has escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. “Lust” is unlawful desire, and is the life's blood of the world—whether it be the lust for sexual sin, for power, for money, for material things. Lust is a monster that will never be gratified, so don't feed it. It will grow bigger and bigger, until it weighs heavy upon your back, and will be the death of you—see James 1:15.<br />
There is nothing wrong with sex, power, money, or material things, but when these become predominant in God's sight, the Bible calls this "inordinate affection" (Colossians 3:5). We are told, "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world, the love of the Father is not in Him… whoever is a friend of the world is an enemy of God" (1 John 2:15, James 4:4).<br />
The second enemy is the devil. As we have seen, he is known as the "god of this world." He was your spiritual father before you joined the family of God (John 8:44, Ephesians 2:2. Jesus called the devil a thief, who came to kill, steal and destroy (John 10:10).<br />
The way to overcome him and his demons is to make sure you are outfitted with the spiritual armor of God listed in Ephesians 6:10-20. Become intimately familiar with it. Sleep in it. Never take it off. Bind the two-edged sword to your hand so that you never lose its grip. The reason for this brings us to the third enemy.<br />
The third enemy is what the Bible calls the “flesh.” This is your sinful nature. The domain for the battle, is your mind. If you have a mind to, you will be attracted to the world and all its sin. The mind is the data-processing control panel for the eyes and the ears. It is the center of your appetites. All sin begins in the “heart” (Proverbs 4:23, Matthew 15:19). We think before we sin. This happens because we don't think before we sin. The Bible warns that lust brings forth sin, and sin when it's conceived brings forth death. Every day we have life, we have a choice. To sin or not to sin—that is the question. The answer to the question of sin, is the fear of God. If you don't fear God, you will sin to your sinful heart's delight.<br />
Did you know that God kills people? He killed a man because he didn't like what he did sexually (Genesis 38:10). He killed a husband and wife because they told just one lie (Acts 5:1-11). Knowledge of God's goodness—His righteous judgments against evil, should put the fear of God in us, and help us not to indulge in sin.<br />
If we know that the eye of the Lord is in every place beholding the evil and the good, and that He will bring every work to judgment, we will live accordingly. Such weighty thoughts are valuable, for "by the fear of the Lord, men depart from evil" (Proverbs 16:6). Jesus said, "And I say to you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear Him, who after He has killed, has power to cast into Hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him!" (Luke 12:4-5).<br />
6. Fellowship—Flutter by Butterfly<br />
Pray about where you should fellowship. Make sure the place you are going to call your church home calls sin what it is—sin. Do they believe the promises of God? Are they loving? Does the pastor treat his wife with respect? Is he a man of the Word? Does he have a humble heart, and a gentle spirit? Listen closely to his teaching. It should glorify God, magnify Jesus, and edify the believer. One evidence that you have been truly saved is that you will have a love for other Christians (1 John 3:14). You will want to fellowship with them.<br />
The old saying that "birds of a feather flock together" is true of Christians. <br />
You gather together for the breaking of bread (communion), for teaching from the Word, and for fellowship. You share the same inspirations, illuminations, inclinations, temptations, aspirations, motivations, and perspirations—you are working together for the same thing, for the furtherance of the Kingdom of God on earth. This is why you attend church—not because you have to, but because you want to.<br />
Don't become a “spiritual butterfly.” Send your roots down. If you are moving from church to church, how will your pastor know what type of food you are digesting? The Bible says that your shepherd will have to give an account to Him that has entrusted you to him (Hebrews 13:17), so make yourself known to your pastor. Pray for him regularly. Pray also for his wife, his family, and the elders. Being a pastor is no easy task. Most people don't realize how many hours it takes to gather a fresh sermon each week. They don't appreciate the time spent in prayer and in the study of the Word. If the pastor makes the same joke twice, or shares something he has shared before, remember, he's human. So give him a great deal of grace, and double honor. Never murmur about him. If you don't like something he has said, pray about it, then leave the issue with God. If that doesn't satisfy you, leave the church, rather than divide it through murmuring and complaining.<br />
A woman once spread some hot gossip about a local pastor. What he had supposedly done became common knowledge around town. Then she found that what she had heard wasn't true. She gallantly went to the pastor, and asked for his forgiveness. The pastor forgave her, but then told her to take a pillow full of tiny feathers to a corner of the town, and in high winds, shake the feather out. Then he told her to try and pick up every feather. He explained that the damage had already been done. She had destroyed his good reputation, and trying to repair the damage was like trying to pick up feathers in high winds.<br />
The Bible says that there is life and death in the power of the tongue. We can kill or make something alive with our words. The Scriptures also reveal that God hates those who cause division among the brethren (Proverbs 6:16). Pray with the psalmist,<br />
Set a watch O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.<br />
Remember the old saying,<br />
He that gossips to you, will gossip about you.<br />
7. Thanksgiving—Do the Right Thing<br />
For the Christian, every day should be Thanksgiving Day. We should even be thankful in the midst of problems. The Apostle Paul said, "I am exceedingly joyful in all our tribulation" (2 Corinthians 7:4). He knew that God was working all things together for his good, even though he was going through trials (Romans 8:28).<br />
Problems will come your way. God will see to it personally that you grow as a Christian. He will allow the storms, to send your roots deep into the soil of His Word. We pray more in the midst of problems, but it's been well said that you will see more from your knees, than you will on your tip toes.<br />
A man once watched a butterfly struggling to get out of its cocoon. In an effort to help it, he took a razor blade, and carefully slit the edge of the cocoon. The butterfly escaped form its problem ... and immediately died.<br />
It is God's way to have the butterfly struggle. It is the struggle that causes its tiny heart to beat fast, and send the life's blood into its wings.<br />
Trials have their purpose. They make us struggle—they bring us to our knees. They are the cocoon in which we often find ourselves. It is there that the life's blood of faith in God helps us spread our wings.<br />
Faith and thanksgiving are close friends. If you have faith in God, you will be thankful because you know His loving hand is upon you, even though you are in a lion's den. That will give you a deep sense of joy, and joy is the barometer of the depth of faith you have in God. Let me give you an example.<br />
Imagine if I said I would give you one million dollars if you ripped out the last page of today's newspaper, and mailed it to me. Of course, you don't believe that I would do that. But imagine if you did. Imagine if you had knowledge of more than 1,000 people who had sent in the page, and every one received their million dollars—no strings attached. More than that. You had actually called me, and I had assured you personally that I would keep my word. If you believed me, wouldn't you have joy? If you didn't believe me—no joy.<br />
The amount of joy you have would be a barometer as to how much you believed my promise.<br />
We have so much to be thankful for. God has given us "exceeding great and precious promises" that are "more to be desired than gold." Do yourself a big favor—believe those promises, thank God continually for them, and "let your joy be full."<br />
An old farmer once had an ungodly relative visit him. After the farmer had bowed his head and thanked God for the food they were about to eat, the relative rudely said, "What did you do that for? There's no God. We live in an age of enlightenment." The old farmer smiled and said, "There is one on the farm who doesn't thank God before he eats." The relative sat up and said, "Who is this enlightened one?" To which the farmer quietly replied, “My pig.”<br />
8. Water Baptism<br />
The Bible Says, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…" (Acts 2:38). There is therefore no question as to whether or not you should be baptized. <br />
What about the timing of baptism? The Philippian jailer and his family were baptized at midnight, the same hour they believed (Acts 16:30-33). The Ethiopian eunuch was baptized as soon as he believed (Acts 8:35-37), as was Paul (Acts 9:17,18).<br />
So who should baptize a new believer? It is clear from Scripture that believers had the privilege; it was not limited to clergy or church leaders only. However, if you are thinking of baptism, check with your pastor because he may want the honor himself.<br />
While some Christian church denominations teach that baptism is an essential ingredient of salvation (e.g., International Churches of Christ), the Bible is clear that it is not a means of salvation; yet it is a command we are to do in obedience .<br />
Baptism is a step of obedience, and God blesses our obedience.<br />
9. Tithing—The Last Frontier<br />
It was once said that the wallet is the “last frontier.” It is the final area to be conquered—the last thing that comes to God in surrender. Jesus spoke much about money. He said that we cannot serve God and mammon (Matthew 6:24). The word “mammon” was the common Aramaic word for riches, which is akin to a Hebrew word signifying "that which is to be trusted." In other words, we cannot trust God and money. Either money is our source of life, our great love, our joy, our sense of security, the supplier of our needs—or God is.<br />
When you open your purse or wallet, give generously and regularly to your local church. A guide as to how much you should give can be found in the "tithe" of the Old Testament—10% of your income. Whether you give this amount or not, make sure you do give something to the work of God (see Malachi 3:8-10). Give because you want to, not because you have to. God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7), so learn to hold your money with a loose hand.<br />
10. Troubleshooting: Cults, Atheists, Skeptics<br />
If you know the Lord, nothing will shake your faith. It is true that the man with an experience is not at the mercy of a man with an argument. Take for example a little boy who is looking at a heater. His father warns him that it's hot. The child says, "O.K. I believe it's hot." At that point, he has an intellectual belief that the heater is hot. When his Dad leaves the room, he says, "I wonder if it really is hot?" He then reaches out his little hand and grabs the heater bar with his fingers. The second his flesh burns he stops believing the heater is hot. He now knows it's hot! He has moved out of the realm of “faith” into the realm of “experience.”<br />
In comes a heater expert and says, "Son, I have a B.A. in the study of heat. The heater is definitely not hot. I can prove it to you." The child would probably say, "Mister Expert, I don't care how many B.A.'s you have. I know that heater is hot—I touched it! I'm not in the realm of belief, I'm in the realm of experience. Goodbye."<br />
If you have touched the heater bar of God's love and forgiveness, if the Holy Spirit has “born witness” that you are a child of God (Romans 8:16), if you have received the Gospel with "power, the Holy Ghost and much assurance" (1 Thessalonians 1:5), you will never be shaken by a skeptic.<br />
When cults tell you that you must acknowledge God's name to be saved, that you must worship on a certain day that you must be baptized by an elder of their church, don't panic. Merely go back to the Instruction Manual. The Bible has all the answers, and searching them out, will make you grow.<br />
If you feel intimidated by atheists—if you think they are “intellectuals,” read the book, God Doesn't Believe in Atheists. It will show you that they are the opposite. It will also instruct you on how you can prove God's existence, and also prove that the “atheist” doesn't exist.<br />
Finally, the way to prevent sporting injury and pain, is to keep yourself fit. Exercise. The Apostle Paul kept fit through exercise. He said, "Herein do I exercise myself, to always have a conscience void of offense toward God, and toward men" (Acts 24:16). Do the same. Listen to the voice of conscience. It's your friend, not your enemy. Remember the words of Solomon:<br />
"Fear God and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil" (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14).<br />
Keep the Day of Judgment before your eyes. On that Day, you will be glad for the cultivations of a tender conscience.<br />
Thank you for taking the time to read this. I hope the principles expounded here have been helpful, and that any knowledge you have gained from it, will some day save you some pain.<br />
<br />
Author: Ray Comfort of Living Waters Publications. From the booklet Save Yourself Some Pain. Edited by Eden Communications. Web page Copyright © 2001, Living Waters Publications, All Rights Reserved - except as noted on attached “Usage and Copyright” page.<br />
<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-41160122544110007312010-08-02T00:09:00.000-07:002010-08-02T00:09:33.557-07:00How can I be and feel forgiven?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFZvE8Js9fI/AAAAAAAAAU0/QgNSqjTopMA/s1600/Jesus-Wallpaper-jesus-6590945-1024-768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFZvE8Js9fI/AAAAAAAAAU0/QgNSqjTopMA/s200/Jesus-Wallpaper-jesus-6590945-1024-768.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>“Forgive and forget” is how the old saying goes. But is it that simple?<br />
<br />
A boy who was dumped by his girlfriend says, "She really hurt my feelings. How can I ever forgive her for what she did to me?"<br />
<br />
A girl whose father sexually abused her for years asks, "Why should I forgive him for that?"<br />
<br />
The drug dealer who wants to turn his life around wonders, "Will God really forgive me for all I have done?" How do we forgive others who have wronged us? How do we accept God's forgiveness?<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
The Real Need for Forgiveness<br />
God hates sin; He cannot stand to look at its ugliness. Therefore, unconfessed sin in our lives comes between us and damages our relationship with the Lord.<br />
<br />
"Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, or his ear too dull to hear, but your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that He will not hear." (Isaiah 59:1-2)<br />
<br />
Not only does unforgiveness come between us and God, it also breaks our relationships with others.<br />
<br />
"He who covers over an offense promotes love, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends." (Proverbs 17:9)<br />
<br />
The Requirements for Forgiveness<br />
<br />
Because God hates sin, the price for forgiveness is high. Scripture gives the following requirements for forgiveness:<br />
<br />
*Sacrifice. Hebrews 9:22 says that "without the shedding of Blood, there is no forgiveness." In the Old Testament, a sacrifice of an unblemished lamb was required to satisfy God's wrath. Jesus, the sinless Son of God, died on the cross and became the ultimate sacrifice for sin. Jesus bought our forgiveness when he died on the cross.<br />
<br />
"For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God." (1 Peter 3:18a)<br />
<br />
"In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace." (Ephesians 1:7)<br />
<br />
*Forgiveness of others. Another requirement for forgiveness of sins in that we forgive others. 1 Corinthians 13:5 says that "real love keeps no record of wrongs." Remember that Proverbs 17:9 tells us that a real friend will forgive. God has also made forgiving others a requirement for receiving His forgiveness.<br />
<br />
"For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." (Matthew 6:14,15)<br />
<br />
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you." (Ephesians 4:32)<br />
<br />
*Confession of sin. We must admit our sins to God if our relationship with Him is to be restored completely. Looking back at the real need for forgiveness, we see that unconfessed sin can separate us in our relationship with God. Confession is the way to restore that relationship with the Lord, remembering that it is for our own benefit that we confess to return to the Lord because He is faithful even when we are not (2 Timothy 2:13).<br />
<br />
"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9)<br />
<br />
*Repentance. We must decide to change, to turn from our sins.<br />
<br />
"Therefore this is what the Lord says, 'If you repent, I will restore you that you may serve me.'" (Jeremiah 15:19a)<br />
<br />
The Results of Forgiveness<br />
<br />
The Bible promises the following benefits of God's forgiveness:<br />
<br />
*Happiness. When we know God's forgiveness, we are blessed (happy).<br />
<br />
"Blessed (happy) is he whose transgressions are forgiven, who sins are covered. Blessed (happy) is the man whose sin the Lord doesn't count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit." (Psalm 32:1,2)<br />
<br />
*God chooses not to hold our sins against us. Another result of forgiveness is that God doesn't keep a record of our sins, He does not hold them against us. Because the blood of Christ covered our sins, God chooses to put them out of His mind.<br />
<br />
"I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more." (Isaiah 43:25)<br />
<br />
*God removes our sin from us. "It is possible for the Lord to look at us without seeing our sins because when he forgave us, he removed our sins as far as the east is from the west" (Psalm 103:12)<br />
*We can forgive ourselves. When we are forgiven, we can forgive ourselves and go on with our lives.<br />
<br />
"Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:13,14)<br />
<br />
<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-87963593547946972962010-07-29T09:39:00.000-07:002010-07-29T09:39:31.256-07:00DINOSAURUS SEBELUM DAN SESUDAH AIR BAH<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFGurG7JOII/AAAAAAAAAUk/QABlXmsW65Y/s1600/dino_in_water.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="126" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFGurG7JOII/AAAAAAAAAUk/QABlXmsW65Y/s200/dino_in_water.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Dinosaurus di taman Eden<br />
<br />
Pada Awal Penciptaan, dinosaurus tidak ganas atau berbahaya. Saat Tuhan selesai menciptakan seluruh manusia, Tuhan berkata “semuanya itu baik”. Kalau begitu bagaimana bentuknya? Seberapa besar perbedaannya dengan kerangka dinosaurus yang ditemukan terbunuh oleh air bah dengan dinosaurus pertama yang diciptakan Tuhan? Sayangnya, tidak ada seorangpun yang tahu bagaimana rupanya manusia atau dinosaurus (atau binatang lainnya) saat diciptakan Tuhan jaman dahulu.<br />
<br />
<br />
Dinosaurus di bumi setelah air bah<br />
<br />
Setelah air bah, dinosaurus dan seluruh binatang lain dibuat untuk takut terhadap manusia (Kejadian 9:2). Binatang tinggal sejauh mungkin menghindari manusia. Mereka tidak lagi jinak atau bisa dipercaya. Tuhan mungkin membuat hal ini untuk melindungi manusia dan binatang di bumi setelah air bah. Manusia dan dinosaurus hidup di wilayah yang terpisah—seperti manusia dan binatang liar saat ini.<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
Fosil tulang, gigi dan isi perut dari banyak dinosaurus yang terbunuh selama air bah banyak ditemukan. Sejauh ini, semuanya memperlihatkan bahwa dinosaurus saat itu pemakan tumbuhan dan tidak berbahaya—beberapa ratus tahun setelah manusia jatuh dalam dosa. Mereka mungkin tidak jauh berbeda dari gajah atau jerapah.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
T-rex and friends<br />
<br />
The sharp teeth and claws of some dinosaurs have made people think that they were mean, vicious animals. The Tyrannosaurus Rex is often pictured as a horrible killer, attacking every dinosaur in sight. But this may not be true at all. <br />
New research suggests that the Tyrannosaurus would not be able to move very quickly. Most other dinosaurs could probably have gotten away from him easily. Fossil evidence indicates that Tyrannosaurus walked in a stooped-over (hunched) position and probably waddled like a duck. <br />
The are other reasons to think that tyrannosaurs were not “super-killers.” Their teeth were not rooted very well and might have snapped off in any real battle. Tyrannosaurus rex's small front legs seem far too weak for grabbing and killing large dinosaurs. In fact, they were too short to even reach his mouth. <br />
If some of the dinosaurs we find killed by the Flood did eat meat, they were probably scavengers (like vultures) that lived off the bodies of large dead animals. <br />
<br />
If we look at three other dinosaurs very much like Tyrannosaurus, even more problems can be seen with the idea that they were “super-killers.”<br />
1. Killing dinosaurs, biting through bones and tearing off hunks of meat should leave definite signs of tooth wear. Sometimes a tooth would have been broken or lost. An Albertosaurus (al-BERT-oh-SOR-us) was found with teeth that show almost no wear. The tips and delicate edge serration's are said to be in almost perfect condition. Yet this tyrannosaur was an adult. <br />
2. The Dilophosaurus (die-LOAF- oh-SOR-us) had two high, paper-thin bone crests on its head! It doesn't seem very likely that this delicate head gear could keep from breaking off if the dinosaur made its living as a scavenger--greedily tearing into the insides of dead dinosaurs. If he was a fierce eater of live dinosaurs, the thin crests would have certainly been ruined. <br />
3. The Spinosaurus (SPINE-oh-SOR-us) had long, delicate spines attached to its back bone. Some of these stood straight up in the air six-and-a-half feet high--taller than most men. These spines could have been very easy to damage in a fierce fight with a heavy dinosaur. <br />
<br />
True fierce meat-eaters are smooth and sleek, like the tiger, lion, polar bear and wolf. They don't have any delicate spines or crests to get in their way and cause pain in a chase and fight. Perhaps the guess that tyrannosaurs were aggressive “brontosaur” killers is completely wrong.<br />
Could it be that tyrannosaurs were mostly plant-eaters, not meat-eaters? The shape of their teeth alone can't tell us what they ate. Perhaps they used their sharp teeth and claws to tear up tough plants and fruits, not dinosaurs. Obviously sharp teeth can serve other purposes than simply cutting meat, just as kitchen knives can be used for cutting carrots as well as steaks. <br />
Many sharp-toothed animals living today are plant-eaters and rarely (or never) eat flesh. A few of many examples include the Giant Panda, the large Australian fruit bat, and some apes and bears. <br />
What were the ceratopians really like? <br />
Some dinosaurs, like the Triceratops, had bony spikes on their heads. Others had spikes on their backs and elsewhere. If basic types of horns and spikes like these were originally created by God, then we know something about their purpose. They were not meant for fighting other dinosaurs. <br />
The head horns may have been used for getting food by lifting thick foliage. They could be used for poking, rooting or turning plants. Dinosaurs like the Triceratops had very strong jaws and replaceable teeth. Using their extremely strong jaw muscles, they could slice through very tough plants--even good-sized branches and roots. Dinosaurs like this could even have chewed on tree trunks. <br />
Some insects have horns similar to those of dinosaurs. It is interesting that scientists used to think that the big, sharp horns of some great horned beetles were meant for stabbing other beetles. Actually, the horns are mostly used to pry or lift. <br />
Did any dinosaurs ever become terrible and ferocious?<br />
The answer to this question remains a mystery. At this point, there is no proof that any of the dinosaurs were as mean and dangerous as shown in most dinosaur books. It will take many more discoveries before anyone can say for certain how dinosaurs behaved in the world before the Flood or after. However it is likely that more people killed dinosaurs than dinosaurs killed people. <br />
Bible-believing Christians can be sure of one thing. When dinosaurs were originally created, they were peaceful and harmless just like all the other animals. <br />
<br />
<br />
DINOSAURS AND YOU:<br />
Important Things to Remember<br />
<br />
The Bible. Dinosaurs fit in perfectly with the Bible's record of history. Dinosaur-like animals are even mentioned in the Bible. <br />
Creation. These wonderful creatures did not evolve from reptiles or amphibians. God created them perfectly finished. Today we can only guess what dinosaurs were really like in that sinless paradise of long ago. <br />
The Creator. God's Son, Jesus Christ, created the dinosaurs, the stars, and you (John 1:1-3). Since He made us, He owns us. He has the right to tell us what to do and how to live. God is the wisest and most loving being in the universe. <br />
The Fall. Although everything God created was perfect, Adam and Eve chose to disobey God. Their choice brought death as a punishment for sin (Rom. 5:12). <br />
Disobedience. All people have disobeyed God. Everyone has sinned, young and old (Rom. 3:23). <br />
Sin Always Brings Pain. Adam's body was more perfect than ours today. He lived for 930 years before he died (Genesis 5:5). During his long life, Adam saw many sad changes in the living things under his control. Nothing was as perfect and wonderful as when God created things (animals, plants, people or dinosaurs). In the years after Adam's death, things continued to grow worse. By the time of Noah, the whole world was full of terrible sins and problems. <br />
The Flood. Dinosaurs fossils are reminders of the Great Flood when huge numbers of dinosaurs and millions of other animals were buried throughout the world. <br />
God Punishes Sin. The Flood reminds us of God's punishment for sin--death. <br />
God's Love. Jesus loves us more than we can understand. The Creator came down to this world He made and became a human being. He became the first person to ever live a perfect life without sin. Jesus did this so that He could die for Adam's sins and yours. He took the punishment for our sins--the penalty we deserve. <br />
Forgiveness and Eternal Life. His amazing sacrifice can cover up each wrong we have done, so that God will forget them forever--even our worst sins. Then when we die, Jesus will welcome us to live forever with Him. <br />
Creation will be perfect again. Jesus has something wonderful planned for those who are truly sorry for their sins and thankfully accept His gift of eternal life. God has promised to one day restore the Earth to the perfect, beautiful place it once was. The world will be the way God meant it to be.<br />
There will be no death, suffering or evil. It will be a world full of love, beauty, peace and fun. God will be in charge. <br />
The animals will be as harmless and perfect as when they were first made (Isaiah 11:6-9). We will see the dinosaurs (and all extinct animals) in the way God intended, not as dead bones, but as beautiful living creations designed for our enjoyment. And Man will once again be able to rule with love and wisdom over all the animals, even the dinosaurs. <br />
The Decision is Yours. Don't be like the people at the time of the Flood that died in their sins. You can escape the punishment you deserve. By turning to Jesus, you can be forgiven and one day live forever in Paradise. There is nothing that you can do to save yourself. Only Jesus can save you. <br />
Just believe Jesus and ask Him to forgive your sins. Thank Him for His love and ask Jesus to come into your life forever. <br />
If you haven't done this yet, why not do it today? There is no better decision anyone can make. <br />
<br />
CONGRATULATIONS!<br />
Now that you've made it to the end of our Dinosaur Discovery Trail, you might want some Rest & Relaxation…<br />
<br />
By : Christian Answer.Net<br />
<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-556796532775265258.post-69176517630914122112010-07-29T08:59:00.000-07:002010-07-29T08:59:39.993-07:00Bagaimana caranya menang atas godaan?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFGlJGASDkI/AAAAAAAAAUc/tINTqnBmgu8/s1600/prisoner.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_yBCopCbUJm8/TFGlJGASDkI/AAAAAAAAAUc/tINTqnBmgu8/s200/prisoner.gif" width="200" /></a></div>Setan dan pengikutnya selalu menghalangi jalan setiap orang percaya dan dengan segala cara membujuk orang Kristen agar menjauh dari sikap patuh dan beriman pada Kristus. Tidak seorangpun lepas dari serangan Setan dan tidak seorangpun sepenuhnya berhasil mempertahankan diri atasnya (1 Yohanes 1: 8,10), akan tetapi ada orang Kristen yang begitu sering mengalah atau tunduk atas godaan Setan sehingga mereka tidak melihat adanya harapan untuk menang atas godan tersebut. Mereka menyerah tanpa perlawanan! Hal ini kurang menguntungkan, menjadikan putus asa dan akan membutakan orang percaya atas kemampuan Allah yang sungguh mengagumkan dalam mengatasi godaan.<br />
<br />
<span class="fullpost"> <br />
Hal pertama yang harus dipahami oleh orang Kristen adalah bahwa Allah tidak menuntun mereka kepada dosa. Rasul Yakobus dengan jelas mengutuk sikap yang menyalahkan Allah atas pencobaan yang menimpa mereka (Yakobus 1:13-15). Allah dapat menguji anak-anakNya supaya mereka murni dan kuat, tetapi bukan untuk membawa mereka ke dalam dosa. Jika manusia memberi hati kepada godaan, maka hal itu akan menghasilkan dosa pada manusia tanpa kecuali dan manusia tidak dapat menyalahkan orang lain dalam hal ini selain dirinya sendiri. <br />
Untuk mendapat pengampunan, manusia harus mengaku dirinya bersalah. Pada masa kini, kesalahan ditimpakan kepada masyarakat, pada tekanan waktu atau kepada makhluk lain yang lemah. Jika seseorang mau diampuni, hendaklah dia mengaku dengan rendah hati, “aku telah berdosa”. Selama dia masih berpaling pada seseorang atau sesuatu untuk disalahkan, dia sepenuhnya tidak terbantu untuk memerangi godaan. <br />
Orang Kristen perlu mengenal peranan dari Kitab Suci dalam mengatasi godaan. Pemazmur berkata, "Dalam hatiku aku menyimpan janji-Mu, supaya aku jangan berdosa terhadap Engkau" (Mazmur 119:11). Ketika Firman Tuhan menyatu dengan kehidupan orang percaya, hal itu akan membentengi orang tersebut dari kuatnya godaan. Kristus sendiri memperlihatkan kuasa dari Firman Allah ketika menjawab godaan Setan dengan mengutip dari Perjanjian Lama (Mateus 4:7). Belajar Kitab Suci secara sistematis disertai doa merupakan prasyarat utama untuk mengalahkan godaan. Firman Allah tidak hanya memberi peringatan atas cara atau metode Setan (2 Korintus 2:11), tetapi juga memberi kekuatan untuk melawannya (Efesus 6:11-17).<br />
Cara lain untuk menang atas godaan ialah dengan menghindarinya. Dalam beberapa kesempatan, Kristus meminta murid-muridNya untuk berdoa sehingga mereka tidak jatuh ke dalam pencobaan (Mateus 6:13; Lukas 22:40). Ada orang percaya yang mendapat pemahaman bahwa godaan tidak sama dengan dosa, sehingga mereka merasa dapat menikmati daya tarik godaan tanpa merasa bersalah. Sikap seperti ini menjadi semacam permainan—memandang seberapa banyak rangsangan yang dapat “dinikmati” tanpa terjatuh kedalam dosa yang nyata. Sikap seperti ini adalah dosa karena mengabaikan perintah Allah untuk hidup kudus dalam sikap dan juga dalam tindakan. <br />
Salah satu ayat yang paling penting tentang pencobaan terdapat dalam 1 Korintus 10:13.<br />
“Pencobaan-pencobaan yang kamu alami ialah pencobaan-pencobaan biasa yang tidak melebihi kekuatan manusia. sebab Allah setia dan karena itu Ia tidak akan membiarkan kamu dicobai melampaui kekuatanmu. Pada waktu kamu dicobai Ia akan memberikan kepadamu jalan keluar, sehingga kamu dapat menanggungnya.”<br />
Dalam ayat ini Allah memberi jaminan bahwa Dia tidak akan pernah membiarkan Setan berbuat terlalu jauh. Intensitas dari godaan dan jalan keluarnya akan terjadi secara unik pada tiap-tiap orang dan tidak akan melampaui kemampuannya.<br />
Mengetahui adanya jalan keluar dan menggunakan jalan keluar tersebut dapat merupakan hal yang berbeda. Jika seseorang mengabaikan Firman Allah, dia tidak dapat mengetahui jalan keluar yang tersedia karena dia tidak tahu bagaimana Allah bekerja. Terlepas dari digunakannya atau tidak jalan keluar tersebut, orang percaya tidak pernah dapat menuntut dengan benar bahwa godaan yang dialaminya begitu besar sehingga dia harus mengalah terhadapnya. <br />
Janji lainnya adalah bahwa tidak seorangpun di dunia ini mengalami godaan secara unik. Walaupun tidak ada dua orang yang benar-benar serupa, godaan yang dihadapi seseorang pada dasarnya sama dengan yang dialami oleh orang lain. Karena itu, Alkitab mengatakan bahwa Yesus dicobai dalam segala hal seperti yang kita hadapi dan bahkan menderita dalam pencobaan tersebut, namun Dia tidak berdosa. (Ibrani 2:18; 4:15-16). Karena itu, Dia adalah Penyelamat yang simpatik, karena Dia mengetahui dari pengalamanNya sendiri bagaimana tekanan yang dapat dialami ketika pencobaan itu datang. <br />
Karena godaan yang dialami seseorang tidak berbeda dengan yang dialami oleh orang lain, maka orang Kristen dapat saling belajar, yang satu dari yang lain. Misalnya seseorang yang mengetahui bahwa orang Kristen lain dapat mengatasi masalah yang menyangkut ketamakan, hal ini memberi keyakinan bahwa seseorang dapat mencoba dengan caranya sendiri untuk mampu mengatasi masalah ketamakan itu dalam hidupnya. Orang Kristen yang bertumbuh dalam satu segi kehidupan rohaninya mempunyai tanggung jawab untuk membantu orang Kristen lainnya yang belum bertumbuh di segi tersebut. Dalam hal ini, orang Kristen dapat memperbaiki (atau “membangun”) satu dengan yang lain dalam iman (Efesus 4:15-16) <br />
Dalam Kitab Suci tidak ada janji pertolongan mengatasi pencobaan disediakan bagi orang yang belum diselamatkan. Sesungguhnya sampai seseorang mengaku dosanya dan dengan iman menerima Yesus Kristus sebagai penyelamat dan Tuhannya, orang tersebut tidak mempunyai kemampuan untuk menyenangkan hati Allah. Tetapi mereka yang diselamatkan dapat dengan layak menerima kuasa dan hikmat firman Allah, berharap pada kemurahan Allah dan karenanya akan dapat meraih kemenangan bahkan atas godaan Setan yang halus dan memaksa. <br />
<br />
<br />
Dikutip dari The Bible Has the Answer, oleh Henry Morris dan Martin Clark, diterbitkan oleh Master Books, 1987.<br />
<br />
Diterjemahkan oleh Darwin Marpaung<br />
Supplied by Eden Communications with permission from Master Books<br />
<br />
</span>Rev. Stefy H.V. Rompashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17194487597761880204noreply@blogger.com0