What's your take on the war? Last weekend in Chicago anti-war activists squared off against those who support the President and our troops. The activists shouted, "Killers!" The supporters shouted back, "Idiots!" Even in churches there are those who prefer - in the words of hymn writer Charles Wesley - "Gentle Jesus, meek and mild" and those who prefer G.I. Jesus! What does the Bible say about war?

The Bible tells us why there is war. In James 4:1-2a, we discover that war is the result of selfishness. Certainly that was the motive behind Iraq's invasion of Kuwait 12 years ago. It's interesting that while Iraqis suffer, Saddam Hussein has a personal fortune estimated by Forbes at $2 billion.

The Bible also tells us when it's right to fight. In Romans 13:4, we learn that God has given government the authority to protect it citizens - including authority to take life. Compare 1 Peter 2:13-14 and I think you have a foundation for just war using just means to accomplish a just end.

Finally the Bible tells us where the prospect for peace is. In Isaiah 2:4, we see that there won't be peace until the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ, comes again. Those who have a relationship with Christ have peace with God now. As a result, they have peace within. And for that reason they can have peace with others.

Want to know more? Check out "What the Bible Says About War" where you can listen to Sunday's message in its entirety!

Allen

Not long after our service ended Wednesday, the President announced that the war in Iraq had begun. With that in mind, I'm preparing a message for Sunday entitled "What the Bible Says about War." Why is there war? When is it right to fight? Where is the prospect for peace? People have questions. The Bible has answers. Invite a family member or friend and join us Sunday at 8:00, 9:45, or 11:30 a.m.

Allen

We're just a couple hours from our mid-week service and from zero hour in Iraq. The plan at Calvary is to go forward with our "Stop and Seek" grand finale. If you're able to join us tonight, read Psalm 2 and consider God's ultimatum to the nations in verses 10-12. Our planned theme of adoration fits perfectly as we recognize God's sovereignty. Watch for updates throughout the week as we keep you current regarding plans for special weekend services!

Allen

Last night was the third of four "Stop and Seek" Wednesdays and it was very cool. It was amazing to hear prayers being offered up all over the auditorium. March 19 the focus will be on adoration. There will be lots of praise and worship. Even conversational prayer will be directed in a very worshipful way.

If you've attended one or more "Stop and Seek" Wednesdays, drop us an email letting us know how God has spoken to, changed, or done a new work in you. What has He said? How have you changed? What new work has He done?

Allen

Tonight's focus will be on intercession. After a short worship set, we'll get in small groups of three or four and pray conversationally for our country, our city, and our church. We'll close with more worship and corporate prayer. In some ways, tonight may be the most powerful yet as prayers are offered up all over the auditorium. Can't wait to see what God is going to do!

Allen

The focus tonight will be on supplication. We'll open with a short worship set, announcements, and another short worship set. I'm going to give people an opportunity to share a short testimony about answered prayer in their life. Then as David leads the church in worship, we're going to give people an opportunity to receive prayer. Last week was real special and this week will be, too.

Allen